SING TAO Previous NextFinancial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po says it might be time for the government to adjust public service charges amid an estimated HK$140 billion deficit in the last fiscal year. Chan said the government has put a lot of resources into fighting the pandemic, with public expenditure skyrocketing at the same time. "Many public services' charges have not been adjusted for a long time, and some services under the user pays principle are also far from covering the cost," Chan said. The government will also ensure the underprivileged will get appropriate support and basic public services under Hong Kong's social security system. In the long run, Chan believes, the key to increasing government revenue is a prosperous economic development.

Source: The Standard January 08, 2024 02:56 UTC