§ 72. Mr. Gallacherasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why 2,000 Chinese homes were destroyed by Hong Kong police in Kowloon on 3rd July, rendering 6,000 Chinese homeless; what alternative accommodation has been offered to these people; and what was the purpose of this action.
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsI assume the hon. Member is referring to the removal of unauthorised squatters' huts which were almost on the touchdown point of Kai Tak Airport. This removal was ordered partly on public health grounds and partly because of fire hazard to the airport buildings and danger in the, event of an accident to aircraft. The squatters, who numbered about 3,000, were given ample notice and removed their own shacks. Those belonging to Hong Kong134W were offered alternative sites and the remainder were offered assistance to return to their native places in China.