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| Concrete proposals: Chief Executive Donald Tsang unveils measures to boost six industries' development after the final meeting of the task force on economic challenges. |
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The task force on economic challenges has proposed a host of measures to boost the development of six industries in which Hong Kong has an edge.
Speaking after the group's final meeting this afternoon, Chief Executive Donald Tsang said the Government should play a key role in helping the industries develop.
On education, he said two sites in the urban areas will be reserved for private tertiary education purposes. The details will be announced by the end of this year.
Four sites will be earmarked for private hospital development and the Government will invite expressions of interest by the end of this year.
Certification council
A Hong Kong Council of Testing & Certification will be formed in three months to promote the professional standards and international recognition of Hong Kong's industry.
The council will work with the industry to formulate a three-year market-oriented development plan within six months of its establishment.
The Government will also take the lead in making Hong Kong a green city, through legislation and specific measures including:
* expanding the scope of green procurement;
* stopping the purchase of incandescent light bulbs; and
* formulating guidelines and providing new resources to encourage departments to procure green products.
Tax incentives
On innovation and technology, the Government will explore the possibility of new financial or tax incentives to encourage the private sector to increase investment in research and development.
"On cultural and creative industries, we will actively promote the interest and ability of Hong Kong people, particularly among our youths, in appreciating art and culture, and provide more opportunities for artists to perform and display their works," Mr Tsang said.
The Government will consider how to expedite the retrofitting or redevelopment of under-utilised industrial buildings for use by cultural and creative industries.
Common limitation
"One common limitation facing the further development of these six industries is a shortage of land resources. We know that this may not be a problem that the market can resolve entirely on its own.
"The Government will adopt an open mind in tackling this limitation so that the full potential of the six industries may be realised."
Noting the task force's work draws to a close, Mr Tsang said Government bureaux will follow up the group's recommendations and the progress will be reported in the Policy Address in October.
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