Rebirth of Hong Kong Island, I, the rice class leader

Chapter 252 Chapter 252: Get on the boat and play together?The terror of someone high!
This is truly a happy era, and Gao Yao's understanding of the current world has deepened.

What he thought was a difficult problem was actually solved in Bai Yuechang's few words...

"Madam, you are truly my good wife."

Gao Yao picked up Bai Yuechang and said, "Husband must reward you well."

The next day, there was an additional item in the gazette, nothing more than the news that the Governor-General appointed Gao Yao as an unofficial member of the Municipal Council.

As soon as the news came out, Hong Kong Island was in an uproar. In the eyes of those who were interested, this was a sign that the new governor might make reforms.

At that time, there were three types of members of the Urban Council: eight were appointed by the government, six were officials from various departments (that is, ex-officio members), and eight were elected members (actually unofficial members).

This quota has always been fixed, just like the Executive Council, which has always been 7 official and 4 unofficial members.

Grantham now appoints Gao Yao as an unofficial member of the new Municipal Council even though the quota of members is already full.

This shows that Grantham may have to start reforming.

As the saying goes, there are three fires for a new official to take office. Before, everyone was guessing where the fire would burn, but now it seems that the fire is burning in politics.

Even Zhou Xinian couldn't help but come to Gao Yao to study.

Although the Municipal Council's authority is limited to culture, public health and entertainment, it cannot stand up to high authority, and its influence is naturally very different from others.

Gao Yao knew a little bit, so he said: "Your Excellency, like Sir Hao Dejie, is preparing to localize civil servants."

Zhou Xinian muttered to himself: "Localization of civil servants?"

Prior to this, most of the positions held by Chinese in the Hong Kong government were interpreters. Some were lucky enough to be transferred to clerical and other positions, but it would be more difficult to advance further.

Because most of the positions are occupied by foreigners.

Just like Gao Yao's position as an unofficial member of the Municipal Council, there is a prerequisite for him to be able to speak English.

All official documents of the Hong Kong government are in English. If you don't know English, it will be very troublesome to communicate.

Do people have to say a sentence during a meeting and then wait for the interpreter to translate it?

In view of this, knowledgeable people at that time joined the police force, just like Situ Zhiren.

Because relatively speaking, promotion in the police force is easier than in the Hong Kong government.

"Yes."

Gao Yao reminded: "Our new Governor is not a newbie who just came to Hong Kong Island. He can even speak Cantonese."

Zhou Xinian nodded: "That's right."

He high-fived and said: "It seems that the proportion of us Chinese holding positions in the Hong Kong government will increase, which is a good thing."

There are three gangs of heroes. The more Chinese people serve as political officers, the more the needs of the people will be reflected. In short, it will definitely be better than before.

"Okay."

Zhou Xinian then said: "This is certainly good, but I'm afraid that you may copy the previous governor's plan."

After Yang Muchi regained his freedom, in order to make up for his shortcomings and gain face for the empire, he worked hard to come up with a Yang Muchi plan, hoping to restore his reputation.

The main content of the plan is to propose that the Hong Kong government decentralize power and establish a city council that is largely elected by popular vote, in an attempt to cultivate democracy and equip Hong Kong Island with the conditions for independence in the long run.

To be honest, this plan was very popular with the British government because it catered to the colonial demands for independence after the war.

But this is against the fundamental laws of China!
All sectors of society have never been able to reach a consensus, so the plan has never been implemented.

To be honest, Gao Yao didn't agree with it, because the hidden dangers of this plan were huge. After he pondered for a while, he slowly said: "I don't think your Excellency should be like this."

Gao Yao looked to the north: "Besides, even if we want to implement it, we have to look at what the other side means."

"I don't think it's that easy."

Zhou Xinian said: "That's right."

"Hey."

He let out a long sigh: "The most important problem on Hong Kong Island is autonomy or democracy? It is still the relationship with the mainland."

Gao Yao also agreed with this. He had been reading information on Hong Kong Island before, and he had also read a lot of historical gazette contents that he could collect. It can be said that he has considerable influence on Gui Lao's attitude towards Hong Kong Island. learn.

As early as June 1843, 6, Stanley, the Secretary of the Colonial Department, issued an instruction to Pottinger, clearly informing Hong Kong Island "not for colonization, but for diplomatic, military and commercial purposes."

This article clearly clarifies the difference between Hong Kong Island and other British colonies in the world. It is also the principle that subsequent Hong Kong governors basically abide by when in office.

Gao Yao said: "The Westerners' request for Hong Kong Island is to use it to carry out commercial, military, and diplomatic activities."

"Any kind of democratic reform would create unnecessary risks."

Gao Yao from later generations concluded: "It will never change."

In fact, it was changed, but that was before the handover. The last governor, Fei Peng, vigorously promoted democratic reforms, which really put a lot of emphasis on Hong Kong Island.

But that was decades from now, not now.

"A conversation with Chairman Gao is better than ten years of studying."

Zhou Xinian said: "In fact, how can we have so many demands? We just hope that Hong Kong Island can develop well and be safe."

He laughed and said: "Then again, Chairman Gao, the Governor of Hong Kong has to meet with you frequently recently."

Gao Yao laughed: "Each other, each other."

The two have many overlaps in their schedules, such as the renovation and licensing of the naval hospital under the Tuberculosis Prevention Association. Grantham must be invited to come forward for this.

Also, Ruttonji had just finalized the Grantham Hospital with Grantham, so he would definitely have to come forward.

But overall, it's still a little higher.

For example, tomorrow's public housing groundbreaking ceremony, as the first to respond to the Hong Kong government's non-profit housing construction project, Grantham will definitely come.

In addition to this, there is also the tallest building in Causeway Bay. Does Grantham have to come too?
It was also because of this that Zhou Xinnian was so envious. He found that if he wanted to get closer to power, he still had to hide money at home.

Look at this young man, he created an opportunity just by throwing money.

"My wife said that Chairman Gao is planning to build a Grantham Education College?"

Zhou Xinian's teeth were full of acidity. Really, being rich means being exposed.

Look at Ruttonji and Gao Yao, one runs Grantham Hospital and the other runs Grantham Education College.

Damn, this relationship is too close.

"Okay."

Zhou Xinian said: "It takes ten years to grow trees and a hundred years to cultivate people. If education is good, fame cannot be lost."

Gao Yao couldn't help laughing. He discovered that the so-called celebrities were actually like this. The aura around them was because ordinary people were too far away, so they thought they were magical.

But when you get close, you will find that celebrities are also flesh and blood, and they also have emotions and desires.

For example, this guy Zhou Xinian doesn't hide his desire for fame and wealth at all.

"Dr. Zhou, how is the acquisition of the milk company going?"

Zhou Xinian raised his eyebrows and said with a smile: "Westerners are not wary of me and welcome me to hold more shares. It won't be long before I am a big stock."

Gao Yao applauded: "Congratulations."

The milk company earned more than 100 million last year, which may not seem like much, but it has been developing steadily and is a proper cash cow.

The most important thing is that due to the nature of the milk company's business, it occupies a large area of ​​high-quality land on Hong Kong Island.

For example, in Causeway Bay, the value of the land owned by the dairy company is more than that of Lee's!
"I'm a little rich and I'll be happy."

Even though he said this, Zhou Xinian looked pleased with himself.

Since becoming a director of the milk company, the Zhou family has not only improved their standard of living, but their status in society has also greatly increased.

"It's not easy to compare with Chairman Gao."

Gao Yao said with a smile: "Then I still envy Dr. Zhou, he is so happy and happy."

The two laughed for a while, and then Zhou Xinian solemnly asked, "Chairman Gao, I know you are in charge of the implementation of the Jardine Fund."

He said seriously: "If it is confirmed, I hope Chairman Gao can help make an introduction at that time."

The Jardines were the oldest family in Hong Kong Island. At that time, as long as any Chinese could be their comprador, their status in Hong Kong Island would soar.

Although Jardine seems to be aging now, his influence on Hong Kong Island is still very important.

Now Jardine wants to set up a charity fund!

Zhou Xinian said from the bottom of his heart: "Chairman Gao, I also want to do charity!"

What else can Gao Yao say?He could only say solemnly: "I will recommend Dr. Zhou."

Zhou Xinian left with satisfaction.

We talked so much just for this opportunity.

Gao Yao checked the time and went to the Public Works Department to look for Wu Lide.

The people in the Secretary for Works are very busy. With the arrival of the new Governor, the countdown to the reconstruction projects of various government agencies in the Hong Kong government has begun.

There are also some municipal projects. For example, due to the current shortage of fresh water, public opinion is very strong. Therefore, a few days ago, the Legislative Council approved the construction of reservoirs. This also requires the Secretary of Public Works to come.If it weren't for this, would Gao Yao be able to come to Wu Lide?

It was really because the chief engineer was really too busy, so Councilor Gao had to come in person.

"MR. High."

Gao Yao originally wanted to go directly to see Wu Lide, but was taken away by Jian Lifu. Seeing that this guy was so anxious, his mouth was already bubbling.

"You came just in time."

The three fires of the new official's appointment. Grantham's fire almost burned Jian Lifu dry. Many projects, and they were necessary construction projects for people's livelihood, required the Department of Public Works to investigate and produce drawings.

For example, the Tai Lam Chung Reservoir mentioned earlier has a water storage capacity of 45 billion gallons. Isn’t this a big project?

There are also projects to expand Kai Tak Airport, repair Wan Chai Submarine Drainage, repair Tai Po Road Box Underpass in Tsuen Wan, and repair and maintain some sewage and flood drainage systems...

It does not mean that construction of these projects will start this year, but they all require plans from the Department of Public Works first.

Jian Lifu said: "Your Excellency plans to build two civil servant dormitories and a government building."

"Please take care of it."

Gao Yao shrugged. Fortunately, he was already talking about Xinchang Construction: "It's an honor."

Jian Lifu was sweating: "Oh God, I really turned around this time."

"Are you looking for Wu Lide?"

"Correct."

Gao Yao said: "Last time Wu Lide said that all the drawings had been produced, and I need to estimate the construction period with him."

"keep the change."

Jian Lifu knew the matter about public housing better than anyone else. He said, "I will have the drawings sent over."

"As for the construction period, as long as the materials and labor can keep up, we have calculated that it will be completed within two months."

"Good."

Gao Yao snaps his fingers, this speed is indeed good.

His definition of public housing is very simple, ensuring basic housing and living needs, and then the speed of construction, which is very critical!
Because Hong Kong people have always made money on Hong Kong Island and then returned to their hometowns to build buildings and live there, the Hong Kong government has not restricted the movement of people since the opening of the port.

It is also because of this that the Hong Kong government’s impression of the refugees on Hong Kong Island in the past two years is that they will go back on their own when the time comes...

That’s why we set aside areas for refugees to build their own squatters.

Only Gao Yao knows that most of these people will not be able to go back and will stay to develop Hong Kong Island.

Unfortunately, he couldn't talk about this kind of thing, so he could only ask for the cheapest and fastest house to set an example.

Jian Lifu thought of something and said to Gao Yao: "Because your public housing can accommodate more than 2000 people."

"Although the quality of life is still very low, according to regulations, there must be supporting facilities such as shops, schools, clinics and community centers inside."

"MR. High, you must pay attention to this aspect."

He was worried that young people would turn good things into bad things, but he didn't know that Gao Yao had been prepared. Hearing this, he smiled and said, "I know."

Gao Yaoyang raised his hand: "Let's go."

Jian Lifu said from behind: "Don't forget to send someone over to sign the contract in the next few days. It's very urgent."

He responded with an OK gesture!
Gao Yao had to change his schedule. He immediately made an appointment with Ye Gengnian and Huang Dawen, the heads of Xinchang Construction, to meet at the Gao Yue Building construction site in Causeway Bay.

"Mr. Ye, just one sentence."

Gao Yao got straight to the point: "I am ready to fully acquire Xinchang Construction. You have two choices."

"First, after my acquisition, Xinchang Construction was changed to Gaosheng Construction, and you will still be the person in charge."

"Second, if you start a new business, I can help you introduce the project."

In fact, Gao Yao had discussed this matter with Ye Gengnian before this, but at that time Gao Yao still retained his gentlemanly demeanor, unlike this year, where he was so simple and clear.

Ye Gengnian was suddenly under a lot of pressure. He had been building projects in the mainland before. After coming to Hong Kong, foreigners built buildings and did not recruit construction companies run by Chinese businessmen.

The Chinese basically do not build high-rise buildings, so Xinchang Construction is a useless place for heroes.

I finally took on a big project, but the owner always wanted to buy his own company.

Ye Gengnian knew that Gao Yao was already intimidating, but now he was even more reserved. He was silent for a few seconds and then asked: "Gao Sheng, I know you are a cheerful person. If I don't agree, what will be the consequences?"

If Gao Yao had other choices, there would be no consequences. However, Xinchang Construction currently had the strongest qualifications, so Ye Gengnian had no choice.

Gao Yao said seriously: "Mr. Ye, to be honest, I really need Xinchang Construction's qualifications."

"If you don't agree, I won't hide it from you."

"Hsin Chong Construction cannot receive any projects on Hong Kong Island."

"There will be a safety accident at this construction site soon. As the person in charge, you will definitely be thrown into jail."

Gao Yao calmly stated the facts. This was not a threat at all, because everything was true.

And Ye Gengnian also knew this.

Gao Yao rarely used this method to punish people. He stretched out his right hand and said, "Whether we get on the boat and play together, or you can drive the boat yourself, it's your choice."

Given Mr. Gao's current prestige, it is polite enough to be able to give him two choices. This is because talents are rare.

Ye Gengnian stretched out his right hand with a wry smile. He had no choice at all. Start a new one?How can it be?

"boss."

"Good."

Gao Yao enthusiastically shook Ye Gengnian's hand: "Mr. Ye, I want to tell you that you will never regret your choice today."

Mr. Gao is now the leader of the Chaozhou Chamber of Commerce and the representative of the Chinese in Hong Kong Island today. He is a big tree. It is definitely better to follow him than to start your own business.

"Dawen, you will handle the follow-up matters."

"Yes, boss."

Huang Dawen joined Gaoyao when it was just starting out and has been here now. It seems like only half a year has passed, but he feels that the boss is changing every moment.

This power is becoming more and more extraordinary.

"Hurry up."

“The Department of Public Works has several government projects that need to be entrusted to us.”

"Mr. Ye, you will be on guard when the time comes."

"If you don't have enough staff, ask Mr. Gao from the concierge department and he will make arrangements for you."

Use cooked food instead of raw food, this is the principle!

Currently, among Gaoyao's businesses that need people, the first choice is Zhongxinyi, followed by Chaozhou Gang, and then Lianyingshe and Liangongle.

Only when these arrangements cannot be made, will we look outside.

There was nothing he could do about it. Gao Yao couldn't save so many people. He could only try his best to help people in the circle who could create value for him.

Only then did Ye Gengnian realize that the reason why his boss wanted to buy his company so quickly was because he wanted to take on government projects. He felt bitter in his heart. Who said ghost guys don't care about relationships?

After I came to Hong Kong, I begged my grandfather and grandma in many ways, but I couldn't get any projects.

As a result, the boss took the initiative to deliver the project to his door.

Thinking of this, Ye Gengnian suddenly thought that selling the company to the boss would be a good choice.

"Mr. Ye, what you will get are options and dividends."

Gao Yao briefly talked about Ye Gengnian's treatment, and then said: "You have to expand your team."

“We have a lot of projects to build next just by ourselves.”

Yes, this is only in the hands of Gao Yao, there are also things outside.

I will not talk about government projects, but only about public welfare. Two projects under the Anti-Tuberculosis Association have long been agreed to be handed over to Gao Yao.

Coupled with the Jardine Charitable Fund, according to Gao Yao and Ruttonji, the future of the charity fund will be mainly focused on building buildings and collecting rent.

Isn’t it reasonable for this construction arrangement to be given to Gaosheng Construction with special qualifications?

For these projects, how can the current manpower of Xinchang Construction be enough?Not only did Xinchang Construction not have enough manpower, but Liu Wen's design department also needed to expand.

Gao Yao is very ambitious. The past few years have been the best time for Gao Yao to lay the foundation and make money.

In a few years, land prices on Hong Kong Island will skyrocket on the current basis!
Especially in Central, Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui and other areas, the price has increased several times.

"Hire some skilled craftsmen too, don't be afraid of spending money."

Gao Yao said: "I am planning to build a photo studio in Repulse Bay, and I need craftsmen who understand ancient architecture."

Ye Gengnian swallowed, what is a photo studio?The boss's stall is a bit big. Does your family run a bank?

Oh...he remembered, the boss's family really opened a bank!
(End of this chapter)