Target The Neediest First For Handout: Ann Chiang

DAB lawmaker Ann Chiang on Saturday called on the government to try to prioritise getting the HK$4,000 cash handout to those who most need it, and suggested streamlining the application process.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan on Friday announced a new scheme to benefit around 2.8 million people after criticism that last month's budget failed to share the largesse widely enough.

While officials hope to distribute the money before next year's budget, Chiang called on the administration to streamline the process to get the money faster to people living in poverty.

She suggested the government keep the application form short and urged it not to be too hard on people who inadvertently made an incorrect application.

Only people who are aged 18 or above and were completely left out of the Financial Secretary's HK$52.4 billion relief package last month will be eligible to receive the full HK$4,000 payment.

However, even those who will benefit from the tax deductions, rates waivers, and extra welfare, old age and disability payments can apply for top-up payments if they were promised less than HK$4,000 in the budget, meaning all Hong Kong residents are guaranteed a total package of at least HK$4,000.