2020.04.28 YoungDAB Director Frankie NGAN, Chairperson Noel SHIH and Deputy Chairpersons Nicholas MUK and Victor LAU handed out anti-epidemic packs outside schools at noon today. The packs included 5 masks and 1 bottle of hand sanitizer. Frankie NGAN said that the epidemic has exerted considerable psychological pressure on students taking the DSE this year. The changes of exam schedule also disrupt the study schedules of students. Therefore, they hope to boost DSE students' morale, remind them to maintain good personal hygiene and take preventive measures while preparing for the DSE. Media Inquiries: YoungDAB Director Frankie NGAN (6600 2511) Chairperson Noel SHIH (9544 8811)

Let's find a way forward for Hong Kong Ever since the start of the anti-extradition bill protests last year, Hong Kong's law and order have come under constant attack by large-scale, organised acts of violence. It is a result of radical political forces seeking to destroy Hong Kong through nihilistic "mutual destruction". Moreover, before the political storm could die down, the COVID-19 outbreak hit us like a tsunami. That dealt a massive blow to the livelihoods of numerous businesses and members of the public while plunging the economy into a deep freeze. In the face of such a grim situation, it is no surprise that many Hong Kongers are especially anxious about the city's future. The DAB believes that the future wellbeing of Hong Kong and its people lies in preserving “One Country, Two Systems.” We must resolutely stop further attempts to damage One Country, Two Systems as well as our social and legal stability. We wish to promote dialogue and garner constructive forces within society to chart a way forward for Hong Kong. The DAB will hold a series of consultations titled “Rebuild Our Home. Say NO to Mutual Destruction”. Throughout the public consultations, we shall focus on discussing the three following vital issues: 1) How to maintain the long-term stability of "One Country, Two Systems?" It is the DAB's view that "One Country, Two Systems" is eminently viable and is the best governing system for Hong Kong. As we continue to face a multitude of problems and challenges, we must act strictly in accordance with the Constitution, the Basic Law and implement One Country, Two Systems precisely. That includes correcting any misunderstandings and deviations in implementing the system. Also, we feel that wide-ranging reforms of the HKSAR governance and civil service systems are in order. That would require the governing elites to abandon their hubris and bureaucratic mentality, by truly putting people first and proactively solving the most pressing social issues. 2) Is "Big Market, Small Government" the best model for Hong Kong's development? The government has always adhered to the "Big Market, Small Government" principle like a golden mantra. However, various societal and economic issues in recent years have demonstrated that relinquishing the government's proactive role in leading the economy makes it challenging to promote industrial diversification in Hong Kong. That, in turn, hinders the economy's ability to foster new ways for growth and residents to enjoy the fruits of economic prosperity. In the long term, this could further polarise society and jeopardise the healthy development of our economy. We must look into whether the government should adjust its governing principles. That includes assuming a more proactive role in addressing any deficiencies in market operations to promote both healthy economic development and fairness in society. 3) How to deal with the issue of economic inequality? Hong Kong's poverty gap has always been a black mark on society. As of 2016, Hong Kong's Gini coefficient reached 0.539, which was well over the international inequality threshold of 0.4. The best way to close the gap is to redistribute wealth in society via financial and welfare policies. There is no doubt that Hong Kong spends a lot on welfare, but the city has always pursued a rather basic low tax system. We should examine whether the current wealth redistribution system can effectively alleviate the city’s widening poverty gap. If not, how should the wealth redistribution system be reformed? Throughout this consultation series, we will host various events such as roundtable discussions and publish policy consultation essays. The goal is to stay in touch and communicate with various sectors of society and the general public through both district and online platforms. The first roundtable meeting takes place today at the DAB Head Office. It focuses on economic development, and we have invited distinguished guests to discuss and consult on different policies. The DAB would like to invite all HKSAR residents to participate in the " Rebuild Our Home. Say NO to Mutual Destruction: The DAB's Policy Consultation Series" and garner some positive momentum. Together, let us say no to "mutual destruction" and find a way forward for Hong Kong. We welcome all to express their views and advice regarding our consultative policy documents before June 16th (Tuesday). One may do so by submitting letters to any DAB local branch office; emailing us at research@dab.org.hk or leaving comments on our " Rebuild Our Home. Say NO to Mutual Destruction: The DAB's Policy Consultation Series" website(https://www.eventdab.org.hk/policyconsultation) . Enquiry: Starry LEE, DAB Chairperson (7770 0820)

2020.03.07 DAB Legislative Councillor Vincent CHENG confirmed through the HKSAR government that a Hong Kong resident on the Diamond Princess Cruise ship has passed away from Covid-19 in Japan. Vincent expresses his deep sadness and urges the government to take every measure to support the family of the deceased. Vincent also points out that many Hong Kong patients, including some in critical condition, are still in Japan.  He requests the staff and doctors dispatched by the HKSAR government to do their best to assist these patients. Media Inquiries: Legislative Councilor Vincent Cheng (6373 1979)​

2020.03.17 In order to investigate the inventory of masks for schoolchildren and how best to deal with any potential shortage of masks, the DAB Women Affairs Committee (“the Committee”) interviewed 567 parents (valid samples) of schoolchildren aged 12 and under. The survey results showed that around 10% of schoolchildren lack masks inventory while 30% of respondents have less than 10 masks remaining.  Over 90% of respondents worried that their children will not have enough masks to wear to school whenever classes resume.  Over 40% of parents replied that they will use adult masks to cover the shortfall while nearly 20% of parents don’t know any method of dealing with the mask shortage which is worrying on many levels. Even though all classes are postponed indefinitely, the government should make good preparation for classes resumption.  We propose: quickly set up production lines for children’s masks and announce regularly the number of children’s masks supplies and the distribution details for re-useable children’s masks, assist local firms in global procurement of machines, parts and raw material to increase the production of children’s masks. the government to take up the responsibility of purchasing children’s masks and assist parents and schools to purchase children’s masks and have sufficient stock when classes resume. The PTA and school alumni are encouraged to donate any children’s masks. The government should adopt centralized purchases and distribution system for protective items for schools to ensure that the items are used properly. Schools should consider purchasing infrared body temperature checking equipment to check for fever among teachers and students. schools to formulate prevention measures, such as cleaning and disinfecting the campus and contingency plans. The Health Department should assist schools to set up related cleanliness guidelines and standards.  Schools should strengthen their efforts at teaching good personal hygiene habits to schoolchildren such as washing hands and other related measures. Media Inquiries: Legislative Councilor Elizabeth Quat (9031 7995)

2020.03.17 Sham Shui Po District Councillors Leos LEE and LAO Ka-hang put up a notice saying that they will not provide service to supporters of their political opponents in an insulting and discriminating tone.  Their behavior sparked fury but not only did they refuse to apologize, they continued to provoke, insult and discriminate the public. DAB Legislative Councillor for West Kowloon Vincent CHENG wrote to the Secretary for the Home Affairs Bureau (HAB) today requesting the Bureau and the Home Affairs Department seriously follow up the case especially when some of the other District Council members have followed suits.  The HAB must investigate those responsible and ensure that members of the District Council fulfil their responsibilities. Sham Shui Po District Councillors LAU Pui-Yuk and Leo HO gathered around 20 local residents and handed in a petition letter to the Sham Shui Po District Council Secretariat today urging the Council chairperson YEUNG Yuk to hold a special meeting to discuss the issue. According to the Code of Conduct, a member of the Council or its committees shall not at any time or in any respect do anything which may compromise or impair his or her integrity, impartiality, objectivity or his or her ability to perform his or her duties.  LAU Pui-Yuk and Leo HO both consider that the conduct of Leos LEE and LAO Ka-hang is suspected of breaching the Code of Conduct, has brought the District Council into disrepute and fails to meet the public aspirations for a District Council and its members. YEUNG Yuk replied that he will not convene a special meeting as the case is not severe or urgent enough.  We totally disagree with his judgement and feel deep regret at this response.  Those elected Councilors “pick and choose” who to serve reveals their terrible attitude and is beyond the pale for behavior by any public servant.  They are paid via public funds and therefore they have no right to “pick and choose” which people they serve. Furthermore, they should not take the lead in insulting and discriminating against residents and spread their hate with words.  Opposition party members should not favour and cover up these behaviors. Media Inquiries: Legislative Councilor Vincent Cheng (6373 1979)​

2020.05.07 Legislative Councillor for Kowloon East Wilson OR met with Secretary for Education Bureau Kevin YEUNG alongside a DAB team from Kowloon East today (May 7th) expressing their grave concerns on explosives being discovered at the old school grounds of St Joseph’s Anglo-Chinese School on Choi Shek Road. They urged the EB to plug security loopholes at deserted school premises where may become a hotbed of violence. Kevin YEUNG pointed out that the deserted school in question has already been slated to be handed over to Ping Shek Estate Catholic Primary School after a large-scale renovation which will take at least another 3 to 4 years upon the approval of funding from the Legislative Council. Wilson OR handed a petition letter to Kevin YEUNG urging the EB to strengthen the management of deserted schools. Kevin YEUNG responded that 24 hour security measure has immediately implemented at the site in question and promised that he will follow up on holding a risk assessment and increase the security measures as required to prevent this incident from happening again. On the other hand, Legislative Councillors Ben CHAN and Steven HO also raised their concerns on some middle school teachers twisting and distorting the historical facts of the Opium Wars in a Chinese history video. The DAB urged the EB to strengthen its monitoring efforts to ensure the quality of teachers and educational material. Kevin YEUNG reiterated that the content shown in the video is clearly deplorable that he will strictly follow up on the issue. Media Inquiries: DAB Legislative Councilor Wilson Or (9266 1035)

2020.05.07 DAB Legislative Councillors LEUNG Che-Cheung and Holden CHOW along with representatives from the performing arts sector met with the Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Dr. Bernard CHAN on May 7th to discuss the supports of anti-epidemic fund. The performing arts representatives pointed out that many practitioners both on-stage and behind the scenes have been affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Freelancers in particular are facing financial difficulties as well as unemployment. Dr. Bernard CHAN explained relief measures are being put into place including spending $10 million to incubate scripts, $20 million for training and $90 million to support filming movies. LEUNG Che-Cheung and Holden CHOW urge the government to quickly announce the details of such relief measures and give advices on the provision of subsidies as the practitioners in performing arts sectors have not established a satisfactory registration system. They propose the government should ensure that the financial subsidies truly benefit those grassroots people in the performing arts sector by methods such as allowing those who can provide performance record to apply for subsidies. Media Inquiries: DAB Legislative Councilor LEUNG Che-cheung (9016 8088)、Holden Chow(3703 9870)

2020.05.07 Qver a million Hong Kong residents have registered for the reusable mask by the end of the first day application. DAB Deputy Secretary General and Kwun Tong District Councillor Frankie NGAN pointed out that the demand for masks is still very strong and the whole application process is fairly streamlined and effective. However, the application process is still a big challenge for many seniors. Frankie NGAN urges the government to mail these reusable masks by post directly to recipients of OAA, CSSA, low-income working family allowance and public housing residents via Social Welfare Department and Housing Department so as to reduce the administrative costs for both the government and the people. Frankie also suggest the government to open up application stations or Home Affairs Enquiry Centres, Housing Authority offices, LCSD Sports Centres and libraries to help those who are not able to register online! Media Inquiries: Frankie Ngan (6600 2511)

2020.05.06 Legislative Councillors LEUNG Che-Cheung and Holden CHOW held a video conference with the Under Secretary for Development Bureau Mr. LIU Chun-San on May 6th to follow up on the anti-epidemic fund’s support for construction workers. The Development Bureau (DEVB) revealed that there are currently 82 operators taking calls from the enquiry hotline. Holden CHOW requested this number to be increased as the hotline has proven consistently difficult to get through. He also urged them to upgrade the mobile phone application system. The government should also strengthen public messaging on various issues as follows; They should explain to the general public that phase 2 of the anti-epidemic fund has already exempted the requirement for attendance reports at worksites, and notifying around 530,000 workers in the construction sector who have applied and been found eligible for the $7,500 subsidy as stated in phase 2 of the fund the application date via SMS. LEUNG Che-Cheung said that even though phase 2 of the fund has already been expanded to cover registered workers such as plumbers and electricians, many home renovation workers are still unable to be benefited as they do not have registration arrangement. He urges the government to further expand the parameters of the fund to cover them. Media Inquiries: Legislative Councilor Holden Chow (3703 9870)、LEUNG Che-cheung (9016 8088)

2020.05.06 DAB Legislative Councillors Wilson OR and Ben CHAN met with the Secretary for the Environment Bureau Mr. KS WONG alongside representatives from the Motor Traders Association of Hong Kong on May 6th urging the government to postpone the parallel import deadline for private vehicles using petrol direct-injection (PDI) engines. The government has tightened the standards on vehicle and fuel emissions to Euro VI On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Phase C standards on September 1st, 2019. The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has stated that from September 1st, 2019 onward, all parallel imports of private vehicles using PDI engines applying registration must meet these emission standards. Subsequently, the deadline for these private vehicles arrived into Hong Kong is postponed to May 31st, 2020. Industry representatives expressed that it is impossible for the private vehicles with PDI engines that they ordered previously to arrive Hong Kong before the deadline of May 31st as the global outbreak of the COVID-19 has stopped all production, logistics and trading of such vehicles. The motor vehicle industry is being hard hit and they hope the government can consider providing exceptional arrangement by pushing forward the deadline by at least 6 months so that they can wrap up the trading they have yet to complete to maintain industry’s operation and navigate this difficult time. The government responded that they would consider the suggestions of the industry and further analyze the situation to see if they should push forward the deadline and help benefit the industry. Media Inquiries: DAB Legislative Councilor Wilson Or (9266 1035)、Ben Chan (9121 4919)

2020.05.04 President of Legislative Council Andrew LEUNG has released the external legal advice of a senior counsel today on the issues caused by the failure of the House Committee to elect a chairperson and quickly end the gridlock. We agree with the related legal advice that the incumbent House Committee chairperson has the authority and responsibility to direct affairs of the House Committee before a chairperson is elected. The external legal advice stated that although the incumbent chair has the authority of a chairperson, she must be cautious in exercising this power. What must be pointed out is that Dennis KWOK has blocked the chair election for six months and dealt with procedures irrelevant to the chair election, such as motions on the security arrangements, matters under the purview of the Legislative Council Commission as well as a number of non-bonding motions, which is ultra vires in counsel’s view. More importantly, the opposition has repeatedly expressed their intention to hinder the examination of the national anthem law by paralyzing the House Committee. This unprecedented situation has resulted in the failure of LegCo to effectively carry out its constitutional duty under Article 73 of the Basic Law. In a reasonably prudent manner, the incumbent chair has sufficient reasons to exercise her power to resume the operation of the House Committee. We urge the incumbent chair of the House Committee to hold a meeting so soon as possible to deal with the backlog of work in the Committee.

2020.05.02 Several men found three suspected explosive devices in a luggage in the old address of St. Joseph’s Anglo-Chinese School in Choi Shek Lane, Kowloon Bay this afternoon. The incident worried the residents of Kowloon Bay. Legislative Councillor Wilson OR pointed out the incident reflecting the following problems: 1) there are loopholes in management and security of these deserted school premises. 2) schools may become a hotbed for violent acts since the improvised explosive devices founded at Wah Yan College in Wan Chai last year. The government and police should strictly crack down on this practice to prevent injuries or deaths on school grounds or during riots. Wilson OR and the DAB team will meet with the Secretary for Education Kevin YEUNG and Secretary for Security John LEE urging them to plug security loopholes of deserted school premises where may become a hotbed for violent rioters. Media Inquiries: DAB Legislative Councilor Wilson Or (9266 1035)