Blog

2018-19 Budget

A gist of the blog:

I will announce the first Budget of the current-term Government at the Legislative Council this Wednesday. This year, the fiscal surplus will be higher than last year. As the people in charge of public finances, we have to ensure that the resources are allocated in a fair and proper manner, in order to relieve people’s hardship and prepare for our future.

Recently, there were suggestions that instead of investing for the somewhat distant future, it would be better if we just give the money directly back to the people. However, I would like to stress that planning ahead does not mean that we are neglecting the present needs. Healthcare, housing, education as well as development of innovation and technology industry are all subjects that are close to our hearts. Shouldn’t we be proactively planning ahead to enhance our healthcare system and facilities when our public finances are healthy, so that the community can still enjoy quality healthcare services amid the ageing population?

While some of these long-term planning may not achieve instant results, but if we do not make sufficient preparation in our good days, it would be even harder for us to do so in times of financial difficulties, and people may suffer when the care is most needed.

February 25, 2018