71.         Land development is a long process. Yet, society's demand for land is subject to frequent and unpredictable changes. Failure to make timely adjustment in supply will trigger market fluctuations and other social consequences. To respond more flexibly to society's needs for land, the Government is determined to develop new land extensively and build up an abundant "land reserve" that can more than meet the short-term demand. That way, the reserve can be used to meet future demand in a timely manner.

72.         Extensive land development takes 10 to 20 years. Our young people should recognise that the planning proposals and development options under discussion today are intended to address their future needs. It is all too easy for the Government to side-step the problem, but it is today's young people who will have to bear the adverse consequences in future.

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