§ 21. Mr. G. M. Thomsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is satisfied with the level of social services in Hong Kong; and what steps he proposes to extend their scope in the future.
§ Mr. H. FraserWith an annual increase in population still running at over 100,000 a year, the task of providing services is one of outstanding difficulty. Nevertheless, I think the hon. Gentleman will agree, very remarkable 193 progress indeed has been made. There are plans for further expansion in housing, education, medical facilities and social welfare.
§ Mr. ThomsonDespite what the hon. Gentleman has just said, is it not the case that Hong Kong is relatively a very wealthy Colony, and that in no part of the world for which we are responsible are there greater disparities between wealth and poverty? Can he promise that something more will be done than is being done?
§ Mr. FraserI think that the Government of Hong Kong are clearly aware of their responsibilities; indeed, they have discharged them in a most astonishing way over the last twenty years.