Carrie Lam’s realistic ideas to improve Hong Kong will soon be put to the test
Bernard Chan says it is important that the incoming Hong Kong government delivers results that will make real improvements to people’s lives, to build confidence for bigger changes ahead
Wanted: people with the talent and vision to transform Hong Kong
The media have shown great interest in Carrie’s performance in public opinion polls. Her ratings are lower than those of some of her predecessors before taking office. But let’s look on the bright side and say that she has more potential to score higher later on when she and her team start delivering results. Ultimately, that is all that matters – results.
As a result, the manifesto contains a range of proposals aimed at change. Some are about improving governance. One example is the amendment of the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance to cover the chief executive. Another is the adoption of an archives law to bolster the integrity of government records.
Hong Kong’s most pressing policy issue in terms of public disquiet is housing costs. This is a huge and complex area, but Carrie’s manifesto offers several new ways forward.
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All of these policy proposals are quite specific, aimed at addressing shortcomings in particular policy areas. If the new administration can implement these real changes, it will be delivering real improvements to people’s lives.
Hopefully, when promises are met, it will create a new climate in which officials and the community can think in terms of other, wider changes.
It is unfair and plain incorrect to argue – as some people do – that Hong Kong has stood still in the 20 years since the handover. The economy has grown, and welfare expenditure, provision for students at all ages and conditions in hospitals are all measurably better.
But people’s expectations have also grown, and past administrations did not always keep up. If the new government can deliver on its manifesto proposals in the next few years, it will show that change in these areas is possible, and encourage further change to improve our qualify of life.
In short, the manifesto is not a comprehensive list or a series of ultimate goals. It outlines some new but realistic ideas on how to make a fresh start, and make Hong Kong better for all its people.
Bernard Chan is a member of the Executive Council