Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Development, Mr Paul Chan, at a media session this afternoon (July 30):
Secretary for Development: Good afternoon, everyone. Firstly, I wish to apologise for having you wait for so long for me to come out. I have just sworn in. I think it is important for me to finish all the legal formalities before I come out to meet you.
I am very honoured to have been appointed Secretary for Development, and to serve the people of Hong Kong on this platform. I will give this job my all. I will continue to uphold the principles of justice, kindness and integrity, and I will approach my work with humanity, and with a receptive and open mind.
I understand that the people of Hong Kong have high expectations of the Development Bureau as well as the Secretary for Development. The Development Bureau is undertaking a number of very important tasks, including land supply, which is very important in order to meet the housing needs of Hong Kong people and to meet the great demand for office premises and hotels.
Energizing Kowloon East is another important area because this is another CBD (central business district) outside Central. After years of rapid development, Hong Kong people are hoping to have quality and sustainable development, and in this respect heritage conservation and urban renewal are very important. I also understand the people of Hong Kong are very concerned about building safety and unauthorised building structures. I will work very hard with my team to serve the people of Hong Kong. Thank you.
Reporter: Do you think that your appointment by Mr C Y Leung is only based on favouritism because he can't find anybody outside the Government? And, regarding the illegal structures in the New Territories, are you prepared to give a full, blanket amnesty?
Secretary for Development: Well, I don't think I am a second choice for the Chief Executive. I do think that I will be able to serve the people of Hong Kong in the position of the Secretary for Development. As to amnesties for the illegal structures in the New Territories, there is no such consideration yet in the Government.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Monday, July 30, 2012
Issued at HKT 20:38
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