Reservations on works plan

LEGISLATORS expressed reservations about a time-saving proposal to bypass them on consultation on public work projects worth less than $50 million.

It is proposed the power of the council's public works sub-committee and finance committee to endorse or reject a proposed programme not exceeding the $50 million limit be delegated to the Financial Secretary.

The secretary would be authorised to give approval to any public works programmes of the suggested cost scale, provided formal support had been won from the district boards concerned during consultation.