kakase/hk_gov_press_release huggingface dataset:
Government underpins all-out efforts to cope with flooding in various districts
8.9.2023

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) said, the trough of low pressure associated with remnant of Haikui has brought torrential rain to the coast of Guangdong since last night (September 7). From last night more than 70 millimeter of rainfall were recorded in most parts of the territory, and even over 200mm were recorded in Kowloon, the northeastern part of the New Territories and Hong Kong Island. The Observatory Headquarters recorded hourly rainfall of 158.1mm between 11pm last night and midnight, which was the highest record since 1884. The HKO also issued Rainstorm Warning Signals, landslip warning and the Special Announcement on Flooding in the northern New Territories last night. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, is very concerned about the severe flooding in most parts of the territory, and has instructed all departments to respond with all-out efforts. The Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre under the Security Bureau was activated at 23.05pm last night. The disciplined services are handling emergency requests. A number of government departments, including the Drainage Services Department (DSD), the Highways Department (HyD), the Home Affairs Department (HAD) and relevant departments are taking full response actions and going to the affected regions to deal with various scenarios. As at 1am today (September 8), the DSD received 12 confirmed cases of flooding. Forty emergency teams from the DSD and HyD attended to the flooded areas to handle flooding cases. After the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal was issued at 11.05pm last night, the HAD swiftly activated its Emergency Co-ordination Centre at the same time, and opened temporary shelters for people in need of temporary accommodation. The first temporary shelter started operation at 11.35pm last night. As at 1am today, a total of 12 temporary shelters have been put into operation. In response to water discharge from the Shenzhen Reservoir in midnight, the North District Office specially arranged vehicles before midnight to pick up villagers from six villages that may be affected by flooding to temporary shelters for temporary stay. A Government spokesman urged again the members of the public to stay indoor and stay away from low-lying areas to safeguard personal safety during adverse weather. They should also stay tuned to the latest warning messages issued by the HKO, the relevant departments and organisations. The Government will remain vigilant in assessing the latest situation of the weather, roads and public transport services, and announce whether it is necessary to suspend work and classes today before 6am to safeguard public safety. Ends/Friday, September 8, 2023 Issued at HKT 3:43 NNNN
Transcript of remarks by CE at media session before ExCo
5.9.2023

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at a media session before the Executive Council meeting today (September 5): Reporter: Good morning, Mr Lee. The first question: At least nine restaurants that originally promised to hold a banquet for the Democratic Party over the past two years have cancelled at the last minute. Would this development, which some might suggest involved political pressure, send a mixed signal for the party's participation at the upcoming District Council election, where authorities hoped they would run. And would you agree perhaps with views by pro-establishment lawmakers that holding the banquet itself is a form of soft resistance? The second question is recently some lawmakers have also courted controversy over their participation in a singing concert, as well as two thirds of bills in the current LegCo (Legislative Council) term were passed in the presence of less than half of total lawmakers. How would you see the performance of the lawmakers under the current patriots-only system? Is there room for any improvement? Thank you. Chief Executive: Any organisation that wants to organise activities for their own is a matter for themselves. How successful they can do that and how things can be arranged is also a matter for themselves. As regards participation in the upcoming District Council election, it is open to anybody who's qualified according to the law. The only requirement that I can say is they have to, first of all, be able to swear allegiance to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and uphold the Basic Law. I think these are the two basic requirements. Anybody who satisfies that and who believes that they can contribute, of course, they are welcome to participate. As regards public officers who discharge their duties, whether they are government officials or legislative councillors, then of course, they are subject to the scrutiny of members of the public and the press. I'm sure that they will be having their ears wide open to listen to any opinions about what is expected. As regards the improved LegCo election, which has produced the current LegCo members, they have been, I think, making good performances to pass legislation and also in good communication with the Government. They also make a lot of suggestions to improve policies in some areas. They also have criticisms against the Government where they think the Government requires improvements. I thank them for making all these views to the Government to ensure that the measures that the Government takes will benefit society. I am also improving the communication with LegCo members, as you can see through regular Ante Chamber exchange sessions and also through the CE’s interactive exchange Q&A sessions. I will be looking for further opportunities to enhance communication with LegCo members, so that all of us can jointly work to the benefit of Hong Kong. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.) Ends/Tuesday, September 5, 2023 Issued at HKT 12:45 NNNN
Ceremony to commemorate the Victory Day of Chinese People&apos;s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression
3.9.2023

​The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSARG) held an official ceremony today (September 3) at the Hong Kong City Hall Memorial Garden to commemorate the Victory Day of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and senior government officials attended the ceremony this morning. It included the playing and singing of the national anthem, flag raising, Rifle Volley by the Police Rifle Squad, the observation of silence in mourning and bowing in tribute by all those attended. Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Mr C Y Leung; Deputy Secretary General of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR Mr Xiao Youmei; the Director of the liaison office of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, Mr Deng Jianwei; the Acting Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Fang Jianming; Deputy Commander of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison Navy Rear Admiral Tan Zhiwei; the Acting Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal; former Chief Executives of the HKSAR; members of the Executive Council and the Legislative Council; representatives from war veteran groups; Hong Kong deputies to the National People's Congress; Hong Kong members of the National Committee of the CPPCC; representatives of Heung Yee Kuk; representatives from district organisations; and representatives from uniformed groups and youth organisations, etc., were also present at the ceremony. In 2014, the National People's Congress designated September 3 as the Victory Day of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in remembrance of the resistance of Chinese people against Japanese aggression and to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the war. The HKSARG has been hosting official commemorative activities in Hong Kong correspondingly since then. Ends/Sunday, September 3, 2023 Issued at HKT 11:01 NNNN
Speech by CE at Opera Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Opera Gala
25.8.2023

Following is the video speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Opera Hong Kong 20th Anniversary Opera Gala today (August 25): Dr Moses Cheng (Founding Chairman of Opera Hong Kong), Mr Ronald Kwok (Chairman of Opera Hong Kong), Dr Warren Mok (Artistic Director of Opera Hong Kong), distinguished guests, fellow opera enthusiasts, ladies and gentlemen, It is with great pleasure that I address you on this momentous occasion. This evening's Opera Gala celebrates the 20th anniversary of Opera Hong Kong. I extend my warmest congratulations to Opera Hong Kong for staging this milestone programme. I am sure you are all thrilled to be here at Hong Kong City Hall, to witness the harmonious convergence of 30 established artists from the Mainland and Hong Kong to grace the stage. They will present remarkable arias and ensembles, from various repertoires that have been masterfully produced by Opera Hong Kong throughout its history. Over the past two decades, Opera Hong Kong has been the driving force behind the development and promotion of opera in the region, bringing world-class operatic experiences to our city. Since Opera Hong Kong's inception in 2003, the Government has long been giving its solid support, including a long-term partnership with the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, and support from different funding schemes. Opera Hong Kong has nurtured and showcased local talent while collaborating with outstanding artists, opera houses and festivals from around the world. The National 14th Five-Year Plan supports Hong Kong's development into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. The Hong Kong Government is committed to expediting the progression of Hong Kong's arts and cultural scenes. With the help from industry leaders, we are mapping out a Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development, to enhance the ecosystem for the sector. Opera Hong Kong has made a significant contribution in this regard with its unwavering commitment to fostering artistic excellence and encouraging cultural exchanges. In the light of the rapidly evolving arts scene, I look forward to Opera Hong Kong's continuous effort in engaging the next generation of opera enthusiasts, while keeping up with its excellent work. I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to Opera Hong Kong's success - the talented performers, the passionate supporters, and the dedicated organisers. I have no doubt that Opera Hong Kong will continue to grow from strength to strength in the years ahead. On that note - a very high note - I wish you an enjoyable evening with Opera Gala. Thank you. Ends/Friday, August 25, 2023 Issued at HKT 20:00 NNNN
CE listens to public views at 2023 Policy Address District Forum
27.8.2023

​The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (August 27) led his team of Principal Officials to attend the second 2023 Policy Address District Forum to continue to listen to views and suggestions of members of local communities on the upcoming Policy Address. The District Forum was held at Sha Tin Government Secondary School and attended by about 120 people from all walks of life. All 21 Principal Officials participated in the District Forum. The District Forum lasted two hours. In the first session, the Chief Executive and the Principal Officials listened to views of members of the public. The topics discussed covered a wide range of areas including land and housing, transport, finance and trade, arts and culture, employment, education, youth, poverty alleviation, healthcare and social welfare. In the second session, participants were divided into four groups with the themes of "Boosting Economy" and "People's Livelihood" to engage in extensive discussions with the Principal Officials. Mr Lee interacted with members of the public of each group in turn and listened to their views. Mr Lee said, "My team and I have gained a lot and received many valuable views from the District Forums conducted today and last week. I would like to express my gratitude to the participants for offering their insights and ideas. The matters of their concern are important reference for us in setting policy directions and priorities. We will continue to press ahead with various measures to improve people's livelihood and bring Hong Kong's development to a new level, and to work together with everyone to build a better home. "The Government has held more than 30 consultation sessions so far for the 2023 Policy Address, including the two District Forums, to tap the views and suggestions of members of the public and representatives from different sectors on the Policy Address. My team and I will continue to meet with representatives from different sectors and visit different districts to listen to their views. We will do our utmost for the people's livelihood and the economy." The 2023 Policy Address will be delivered on October 25. Members of the public can continue to give their views through various channels, including the Policy Address dedicated website and social media platforms or by phone, email, fax or post. Ends/Sunday, August 27, 2023 Issued at HKT 13:09 NNNN
CE visits International Culinary Institute
17.8.2023

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (August 17) visited the International Culinary Institute of the Vocational Training Council (VTC) to better understand the institute's development and achievements in training talent in culinary arts and for the catering industry. The Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing; the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin; the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun; and the Director of the Chief Executive's Office, Ms Carol Yip, also joined the visit. Accompanied by the Chairman of the VTC, Mr Tony Tai, and former Chairman of the VTC and President of the Legislative Council, Mr Andrew Leung, Mr Lee and the officials visited various training facilities of the institute, including the Culinarium, the Wine Forum, a café, and training kitchens of bakery and pastry. Mr Lee also interacted with students to understand their learning progress and aspirations for career development. Mr Lee said that with its commitment to nurturing talent in culinary arts, wine and beverage business management, the International Culinary Institute makes significant contributions to maintaining Hong Kong's status as Asia's wine-and-dine destination. He expressed his hope that the institute, as well as other member institutions under the VTC, will continue to nurture more local professionals for various industries, with a view to enhancing the overall competitiveness of Hong Kong. Ends/Thursday, August 17, 2023 Issued at HKT 15:53 NNNN
HKSAR Government welcomes introduction of block trading under mutual access programme
11.8.2023

The China Securities Regulatory Commission and the Securities and Futures Commission issued a joint announcement today (August 11) on the consensus to introduce block trading (manual trades) under the mutual market access programme. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government welcomed the decision. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said, "In accordance with the National 14th Five-Year Plan, the HKSAR Government has strived to deepen and widen the mutual access between the Mainland and Hong Kong financial markets. Following the expansion of the scope of eligible stocks under Stock Connect to include Exchange-traded Funds, stocks of foreign companies primary listed in Hong Kong, and more listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen over the last year, the measure announced by the regulators of the two places today signifies another breakthrough of Stock Connect, enriching the existing trading channels and enhancing trading efficiency. The measure will further facilitate the mutual access and concerted development of the two capital markets, strengthening Hong Kong's position and function as an international financial centre and global offshore Renminbi business hub. I am most grateful to the Central People's Government and relevant authorities for their staunch support." The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, "The introduction of the block trading arrangement is important in deepening the interaction and integration of the capital markets. It can enhance the certainty in the transaction price and timing for large-sized securities transactions, thereby allowing investors to manage their asset allocation more efficiently at lower costs, while reducing the potential price impact of relevant transactions through auto-matching. The measure would help meet the increasing demand of cross-border block trading from investors in the two places, and is conducive to further enhancing cross-border liquidity. I am most grateful to the Central People's Government for supporting this initiative. We will continue to closely liaise with relevant Mainland authorities and institutions to implement the arrangement as soon as possible." According to the joint announcement, offshore investors will be able to conduct block trades on the Shanghai Stock Exchange and the Shenzhen Stock Exchange through the Northbound trading of Stock Connect, while Mainland investors will be able to conduct manual trades on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited through the Southbound trading of Stock Connect under the initiative. The stock exchanges of the two places will study the relevant business, technical and regulatory arrangements and consult the market to develop an implementation proposal. A separate announcement will be made on the implementation details and the launch date. Ends/Friday, August 11, 2023 Issued at HKT 17:25 NNNN
CE meets Secretary of CPC Zhongshan Municipal Committee
9.8.2023

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met the Secretary of the CPC Zhongshan Municipal Committee, Mr Guo Wenhai, today (August 9) to exchange views on further deepening Hong Kong's co-operation with Zhongshan. Mr Lee welcomed Mr Guo's visit to Hong Kong with his delegation. Mr Lee said that Hong Kong is the largest source of external investment in Zhongshan, and that the two places enjoy close economic and trade ties. He added that Hong Kong could contribute to the better integration of the two places in such areas as finance, logistics, trade, technology, management and professional services, in which Hong Kong enjoy an advantage, and could co-operate with Zhongshan to promote the high-quality development in manufacturing and other industries, fostering the exchange and development of young people in the two places. Mr Lee pointed out that the Dedicated Team for Attracting Businesses and Talents of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Guangdong actively appeals to local enterprises and talent to develop in Hong Kong. He expressed his gratitude to the Zhongshan Municipal Government for its long-standing support for the relevant work. He said he looks forward to the continuously close co-operation between the two places, with a view to enhancing the understanding of Zhongshan's enterprises and talent of Hong Kong's investment and employment environment. He said that Hong Kong will continue to make good use of its advantages as a professional services and financing platform and encourage enterprises to expand their businesses in Zhongshan and other Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) cities. Noting that the travelling time between Hong Kong and Zhongshan has been significantly reduced since the commissioning of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, Mr Lee said he believes it brings the two places closer to each other and will facilitate Hong Kong people's pursuit of starting business, working, and living in Zhongshan. He said it will also foster the flow of people and deepen co-operation between the two places, and facilitate their joint promotion of the high-quality development of the GBA. Ends/Wednesday, August 9, 2023 Issued at HKT 17:00 NNNN
Annual updating of declarations of interests by CE, politically appointed officials and ExCo Members
9.8.2023

A Government spokesman said today (August 9) that the Chief Executive (CE), politically appointed officials and Members of the Executive Council (ExCo) have updated their annual declarations of interests, and the updated declarations are available on government websites for public inspection. The updated declaration of interests of the CE has been uploaded to the website of the Chief Executive's Office ( www.ceo.gov.hk/en/links.html ). The declarations of interests of politically appointed officials, made in accordance with the Code for Officials under the Political Appointment System (PAO Code), have also been updated and uploaded to the websites of the respective offices or bureaux. Information on the registrable interests for ExCo (including that of the President as well as Official and Non-official ExCo Members) has also been uploaded to the ExCo website after updating ( www.ceo.gov.hk/exco/eng/interests.html ). The PAO Code stipulates that politically appointed officials shall declare their investments and interests on appointment and annually thereafter. These declarations are uploaded to the websites of the respective offices or bureaux. The CE voluntarily observes the above declaration arrangement. ExCo Members are likewise required to declare their registrable interests on appointment and annually thereafter. These declarations are uploaded to the ExCo website. Ends/Wednesday, August 9, 2023 Issued at HKT 16:00 NNNN