Liberal Party urges cutting departmental expenses, canceling $2 scheme for seniors

The government should consider slashing departmental expenditure rather than cutting civil servants’ salaries amid the nearly HK$100 billion fiscal deficit, the Liberal Party proposed in a meeting with Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po Tuesday afternoon.

The pro-business party added that the government can consider cutting a certain percentage of its departments’ recurring expenses, and let them determine the best way of utilizing the fund, instead of reducing the salary of the nearly 180,000-strong civil service force.

The departments can then find their own way to cut their expenses to meet the target, and they can consult with lawmakers with a business background if they fail to do so, the party said in their proposal for the upcoming Budget.

The party also suggested canceling the HK$2 transport subsidy scheme for senior citizens aged between 60 to 64, as the aging population will cost the government an enormous amount of money to cover the elderly’s traveling expenses.

The party also opposed the increase in consumption tax, especially amid the weak retail environment that an increase in consumption tax would “add insult to injury.”

For tourism, the party proposed to further vigorously develop island tourism and hold more mega events.

Other proposals include promoting the development of the sports industry and releasing 1.3 million elderly laborers. 

(Stacy Shi)