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Concluding
Remarks
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| 116. Madam
President, the preparation of this year's Budget has certainly been a
challenging task. I visit districts frequently and talk with people from
all walks of life. In preparing this Budget and deliberating various
proposals, I reflected on the people I had met and the remarks they had
made to me. The thought of the impact of the Government's proposals on
them caused me some agony and anxiety. However, it is the people's keen expectation and encouragement that has spurred me on. Over the past few months, many friends have told me that they understand the difficulties I face and have expressed their support. During the consultation period, Members of this Council, academics, experts, representatives of the business sector and local districts gave me valuable opinions and have helped me tremendously in preparing this Budget. I wish to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to them all.
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| 117. As
a member of the community, I am well aware of the impact of the
revenue-raising and expenditure-cutting measures. However, as Financial
Secretary, I know very well that a persistent fiscal deficit will
undermine our financial stability. The proposals I put forward today may
have short-term impact, but will prevent larger, long-term problems. I
also believe that today's proposals to eliminate the deficit are not so
drastic as to impede economic recovery, and that they have taken into
account the affordability of those who will be affected.
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| 118. Madam
President, last month I had the honour of being invited to sing with Members of this
Council the song "For A Bright Future" which has the following
lyrics: "We dare to scale the mountain height: from topmost peak our
vision bright." 5 Hong Kong people have
conquered one mountain after another and this time is no exception. Our
nation is destined to become a world economic power. Hong Kong is its most
cosmopolitan city and a world city for the region. We can see clearly what
is in store for us. Through perseverance, we will have a bright future.
5 The lyrics are extracted from the song
'For A Bright Future' which is in Chinese.
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