\nare the bedrock of Hong Kong as an international financial centre. But some are worried about the
\nimpact Mainland money and business practices may have on these pillars. Has our stock market
\nand economy become more \u201cMainlandised\u201d? Varsity<\/em> asks economists, scholars and InvestHK to
\ncomment.<\/p>\n
In terms of transparency, there is growing concern in recent years about the way the government
\ndisseminates information and consults the public about its policies. For instance, the government\u2019s
\nplan to redevelop Tsim Sha Tsui\u2019s waterfront, including the Avenue of Stars, provoked furious
\ndebate over what was seen as the government\u2019s lack of transparency and procedural justice.<\/p>\n
Journalists and citizens have noticed the government has become more selective in releasing
\ninformation. Top officials have taken to social media like Facebook and blogs to float ideas and
\nannounce information instead of holding press conferences open to all media.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile barely a week goes by without Hongkongers bemoaning delays and breakdowns on a
\npublic transport system whose efficiency they always prized.<\/p>\n
In October, a barge collided into the Kap Shui Mun bridge along the Lantau Link and paralysed the
\nonly path linking the airport and the rest of the city. The way information was given out and the
\nlack of alternative routes raised concerns about the city\u2019s transport system.<\/p>\n
Millions of people rely on the MTR or franchised buses every day, but Varsity finds buses are
\nhampered by increasingly severe congestion. As for the MTR, the increasing passenger load is
\ncausing problems.<\/p>\n
As Hongkongers, we care about the changes and challenges our city faces, especially in a climate
\nof social and political uncertainty.<\/p>\n
Also in our December issue, we look at Hong Kong\u2019s disappearing livestock industry. Despite a
\ngrowing foodie fashion to eat locally sourced produce, we import almost all our meat from the
\nMainland. In the People section, we talk to writer-critic Tang Siu-wa on her penchant for heated
\nonline debates and why she is trying to put those word battles behind her. Enjoy our issue!<\/p>\n
![\"thomas](\"http:\/\/varsity.com.cuhk.edu.hk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/thomas-s.jpg\")
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