YOU appear to have misunderstood the comments from the International Atomic Energy Agency observers on the exercise we conducted in May 1993 (South China Morning Post, August 12), on which we reported to members of the Legislative Council in July 1993. They pointed out that the likelihood of significant radiological consequences for Hong Kong was extremely remote. They also confirmed that a Chernobyl-type accident was not possible and that the containment and other safety features of the nuclear power plant at Daya Bay would mitigate the consequences of even a core-melt accident. The observers cautioned against premature or unnecessary action, such as evacuation or sheltering, and advised that issuing orders should not be taken unless there were direct and corroborated measurements that such action was necessary and warranted. Nowhere did they suggest, and no experts have ever suggested, that there was a need to evacuate or shelter anywhere in Hong Kong other than the island of Peng Chau. ANDREW KLUTH for Secretary for Security
