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Concluding Remarks
110. Madam President, our economy
is improving steadily and so is the Government's
financial position.
This is encouraging.
Accordingly, some people argue that, even if the
Government does not increase its spending or
substantially reduce tax, it is at least time to relax
its expenditure control.
I do not agree.
We should take a longer-term view, setting aside
any short-term interests and political considerations
and work together to lay a solid foundation, so that
Hong Kong
can stay ahead of the competition.
111.
Promoting stability and
development has been the theme of this year's Budget.
I will uphold the principle of 岞arket Leads,
Government Facilitates?
We will be more proactive in our facilitation
work, so as to provide a favourable platform for our
enterprises. We
will also maintain strict fiscal discipline, ensure the
effective use of resources and leave wealth with the
people. While
promoting economic development, we will, of course, not
lose sight of the needy in the community.
112.
Hong Kong has encountered
many challenges, but on each occasion we have emerged
stronger. This
demonstrates that
Hong Kong
people are tenacious and resilient, and understand how
to take advantage of opportunities.
As a member of the administration, I will adopt a
forward-looking and pragmatic approach to my work.
I will be responsive, proactive and consistent in
looking after the interests of various sectors of the
community. Let
us work together to make Hong Kong a more vibrant,
colourful and harmonious city.
113.
Madam President, this
Council will go into its Easter recess after the
announcement of this year's Budget and will not resume
meeting until April, after the new financial year has
commenced. Immediately
after the delivery of my Budget Speech, therefore, the
Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury will
move the Vote on Account Resolution in this Council to
seek funds on account, to enable the Government to carry
on existing services between the start of the new
financial year and the enactment of the Appropriation
Ordinance. I
hope Members will remain in the Chamber and pass the
resolution today. I
would like to thank them for their co-operation and
understanding.
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