Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung’s annual policy address got off to a bad start today as around a dozen pan-democrat lawmakers unfurled yellow umbrellas, shouted democracy slogans and called for him to resign.
After they were removed from the chamber by security staff, however, it was business as usual, with the embattled leader’s third address focussing on housing, investment in the elderly and poor, and, of course, strengthening ties to the mighty mainland.
Here are some key talking points so you can sound like you read the (real) news down the pub tonight:
– There are plans for a pilot scheme introducing new measures to win back second-generation Hong Kong residents who have emigrated overseas. Come back, guys. It’s really not that bad, we promise!
– From tomorrow, the capital investment scheme – which has allowed 40,000 people (90 percent of whom are mainlanders) to gain Hong Kong residency by investing at least HKD10 million in local markets – will be suspended. No more buying the government. Haha, just kidding.
– HKD50 billion has been pledged to help retired and needy citizens. We’re pretty sure he means those poor people forced to collect cardboard boxes they don’t even have the weight to squash flat.
– Among many housing initiatives, country parks will be reconsidered for housing development. Say goodbye to the Dragon’s Back.
– A new type of subsidised housing will see those in the Public Rental Housing scheme able to buy their flats at up to a 50 percent discount on market price. So still way more than anyone in public housing can afford.
– Exchange programmes, a renewed curriculum and teacher training will reinforce Hong Kong students’ connection with the mainland. Yeah, that ought to stop all those grumbles about democracy. Nothing like a bit of classroom propaganda.
– Oh yeah, and the government’s stand on elections must stay within the framework set by Beijing. Yawn.
Photo: Vox Asia
Reader Interactions