"We already have in Hong Kong an open government, an independent judiciary, a representative legislature and a free press. Introduction of the accountability system will complement these institutions and strengthen the accountability of the government to the public," the spokesman said.

Significance of the new system

The spokesman quoted HKSAR Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa as stating that, the new system will enable principal officials to work as a team to set, coordinate and implement policies more effectively to meet the needs of the community.

Moreover, the checks and balances designed for the HKSAR government, including those in respect of the chief executive and the executive authorities, will not be diminished following introduction of the accountability system, the spokesman pointed out, adding that the Legislative Council will continue to play the same important role in holding the government accountable.

In response to remarks of some Hong Kong legislators, the spokesman also noted that the principal officials appointed under the accountability system will take steps to gain broader public support for their initiatives.

They will strengthen the communication and liaison with the public by visiting their districts regularly and liaising closely with professional bodies, trade bodies and other functional groups.

The new team will be proactive in conducting opinion polls to gauge the views of the public in implementing policies, according to the spokesman.

( April 22, 2002)