I refer to the recent article 'Promised green body still to be formed' (South China Morning Post, August 7) regarding the establishment of a 'Council On Sustainable Development' promised by the Chief Executive in his last policy speech.
The Government seems to be responding to the call made last year by the Society for the Protection of the Harbour to set up a council to reflect public views, to advise the Executive Council and to act as an honest mirror to the Government's strategic planning policies, including harbour reclamation.
The society urges the Government to appoint representatives to this Council on Sustainable Development from the major sections of the community directly affected by strategic planning decisions. They should be people of high standing, knowledgable in their own fields and willing to devote the time and attention necessary to consider the complex issues involved. To ensure impartiality and independence, these representatives should be selected and nominated by their own organisations.
Despite the many criticisms of the present administration, it is only fair to give credit where it is due. We are encouraged by the Government's change in policy regarding reclamation of Victoria Harbour from 'maximum reclamation' to 'minimum reclamation'. Furthermore, through the efforts of Secretary for Planning and Lands Gordon Siu Kwing-chue, the Town Planning Board has published a vision statement which upholds the principle that Victoria Harbour is to be protected and preserved.
WINSTON CHU KA-SUN
Society for Protection of the Harbour
