Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, recently presented the third Policy Address of his term, focusing on reform measures to enhance the economy and improve the livelihoods of the people. The address emphasized the importance of reform in various sectors such as finance, healthcare, trade, talent attraction, culture, and sports.
Lawmakers and pro-Beijing parties praised the address for its proactive approach towards economic development and maintaining Hong Kong’s international financial and trade status. However, a poll conducted by the Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute revealed that fewer people were interested in the latest Policy Address compared to previous ones.
NGOs and scholars have scrutinized the address, particularly focusing on housing issues and poverty alleviation measures. One significant proposal was the phasing out of subdivided flats smaller than eight square meters, ensuring they have windows and a toilet. While this move was welcomed, concerns were raised about the exclusion of “coffin homes” from the legislation and the need for more detailed policy arrangements, including rent controls and resettlement plans for affected tenants.
Experts like Ruby Lai from Lingnan University emphasized the importance of regulating rent to prevent vulnerable residents from facing high rents or displacement. Lawmaker Michael Tien also highlighted the need for an initial rent cap to protect tenants in the wake of quality upgrades for subdivided housing.
In terms of poverty alleviation, the government’s strategy of targeted poverty alleviation was discussed, focusing on subdivided unit households, single-parent households, and elderly households. However, concerns were raised about the lack of a clear poverty line indicator and measures to address structural issues contributing to poverty in Hong Kong, such as insufficient retirement protections and low wages.
Scholars like Wong Hung and Au-Yeung Tat-chor suggested the reinstatement of a poverty line for better understanding the city’s poverty situation and the importance of adopting a dual-track approach that combines poverty line measurements with targeted poverty alleviation strategies.
Despite the government’s efforts, criticisms were raised about the absence of political reform in the Policy Address. Lo Kin-hei from the Democratic Party expressed disappointment over the lack of mention of political reforms, emphasizing the importance of societal participation and dissenting voices in shaping Hong Kong’s development.
Overall, while the Policy Address received mixed reactions, there is a consensus among experts and scholars on the need for more comprehensive policies to address housing issues, poverty alleviation, and political reform in Hong Kong.
