Home ownership is everyone's dream

It has been 12 years since the production of Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) flats ceased in 2002.  Next month, a new batch of long-awaited HOS flats will be offered for sale before completion, consisting of a total of 2 160 units in five housing estates.

Given the high prices of private flats, the HOS is an important rung on the housing ladder for people who wish to own their homes.

However, there can be no housing without land.  Whether we can provide a substantial number of HOS flats depends on land supply, which in turn depends on planning.  In this process, we need the support and co-operation of the Legislative Council, Hong Kong Housing Authority, District Councils and local communities.

Housing is our top priority as far as people's livelihood is concerned.  One of the major aspirations of the general public, particularly young people, is home ownership.  The Government hears their voices loud and clear, and has been doing its best to identify sites for housing production.  Our efforts over the last couple of years have borne fruit, and the supply of private flats is set to increase continuously in the coming years.  The Government will keep up its efforts, hoping that, with the support of all parties concerned, the shortage of various categories of residential units will be gradually alleviated in the next few years and our people's home ownership dreams can come true.

November 10, 2014