CE urged to support retail, social welfare sectors
Propping up the retail industry and providing more support for the social welfare sector were among numerous appeals to Chief Executive John Lee as he held a town hall meeting in Mong Kok on Sunday to solicit views for his upcoming policy address.  Dozens spoke in the two-hour televised forum, including a retail worker who proposed expanding the multiple-entry visa scheme for Shenzhen residents to other Greater Bay Area cities to attract more mainland tourists to Hong Kong, and consumption vouchers to boost spending locally. "Spending is relatively weak. I hope the government can consider distributing local consumption vouchers to encourage residents to stay in Hong Kong to spend. Even if it's a small amount, it's still a gesture," she said.  In response, the CE acknowledged that some sectors are struggling. "Although our economy is growing, with the latest figure standing at three percent, challenges remain for certain industries in adapting to this transitional and reshuffling period," Lee said.  "Attracting people is definitely a policy of mine. We will discuss various ways to do this – whether they have been previously raised or they are new ideas – with the central government." Some other issues covered focused on social welfare, including whether a three-tier system aimed at preventing suicides among school pupils will continue when it ends this year.  "We are assisting pupils who are in need and providing them with counselling services. This is correct and we will continue to do that. The mechanism will also be reviewed by the end of the year," Lee said.  "We should also look into how to reduce the number of young people who are in need, including through personality development and raising their ability to handle issues. It's not easy, and this has to be done little by little." On a suggestion to set a minimum space standard for homes, the chief executive said the administration will tackle issues relating to living space and environment in the long run.  Lee is expected to deliver his third annual policy blueprint in October.