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How to develop a more secure future

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In a matter of days, our chief executive will deliver his first policy address. Given Donald Tsang Yam-kuen's two-year term - at least for now - it is unreasonable for anyone to expect miracles, given the city's many economic, social and political problems.

We expect, however, that Mr Tsang will want to serve another five years. There is no reason why he would not want, or should not have, a full term after what many see as a period of probation - provided, of course, that he does a good job.

So, what do we mean by 'doing a good job'? After more than seven lean years, our priority - and that of everyone else in Hong Kong - is the economy. This means economic development and jobs, because people's livelihoods are closely related to them; they also strengthen social stability and harmony.

This is one huge task for any chief executive. We do not expect miracles, but we do expect some achievement. More important, however, we expect that foundations will be laid for the attainment of our goals.

Our economy is on the mend. Even the most cynical person must concede that the recent gains in profits, investments, exports, jobs and social well-being are not just passing mirages. They are real. But they need a lot of firming up.

We do not hesitate to say that our future will be more secure if the chief executive adopts six major development projects we have looked into.

The first is to relocate our administrative and political centre out of Central, to the old Kai Tak airport site. That would release valuable land for redevelopment, while the public coffers would gain immensely and the burden on taxpayers would be significantly lightened.

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