Letters | What G7’s non-opposition to Japan’s nuclear waste water plan says
- Readers discuss the rich world’s support for the Fukushima water release plan, a win-win for Hong Kong and golf, and a compromise on Fanling
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has highlighted that if the plan is followed, the Japanese government will be accountable not only for causing marine pollution, but also for jeopardising the health and safety of mankind.
In contrast, led by the US, the G7 has backed Japan’s plan to discharge the nuclear waste water into the Pacific, despite scientific concerns about severe consequences for marine life.
Interestingly enough, the Group of 7 governments’ stance does not fully reflect public opinion in the United States, for example, on nuclear-related matters.
The fact that the Japanese government’s waste water discharge plan has met with no real G7 resistance shows how desensitised the world has become to environmental issues, such that politics can be prioritised over environmental sustainability.
Dr Kevin Lau Chung Hang, advisor to Our Hong Kong Foundation
Take a leaf from the British Open
I presented my comments to the Town Planning Board meeting on June 29 regarding the Draft Fanling/Sheung Shui Extension Area Outline Zoning Plan No. S/FSSE/1.
We propose a middle way, where both sides could reach a compromise and benefit along with other Hongkongers.
When the Leisure and Cultural Services Department takes over the management of the Old Course, it should invite all sporting groups to submit proposals as to how to use this land, so that more sports and more people in Hong Kong can benefit. At the same time, the space should be made available to anyone interested in pursuing leisure activities, seeking recreation or doing some sightseeing.
As for the development of golf and Hong Kong’s international status as a golf hub, we propose that the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau organise the Hong Kong Open, with all local golf clubs as co-organisers. Our government can provide larger awards to attract top players.
This is also a chance to develop other local golf courses to international standards, with government assistance. Furthermore, under this approach, other areas of Hong Kong would be promoted to the outside world.
Consider how the British Open is held at different golf courses in the United Kingdom, not just St Andrews. The Hong Kong Golf Club can play a leading role in running the Hong Kong Open with the Culture Bureau, while other local golf clubs can be upgraded and assist.
We hope the government can consider our suggestions and make a popular decision.
Leslie Y.S. Lee, chairman, International union of Professional Development Institutions
On Fanling, a compromise between development and preservation please
Despite this, I hope and trust that board members will have the courage and good sense to steer the government towards a rational compromise: one that protects the natural beauty of this land for the widest possible public enjoyment, while preserving its rare and magnificent old trees, biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Elizabeth Bosher, Discovery Bay