Annual Report 2023

Members perform the functions of scrutinizing bills and subsidiary legislation, examining and approving public expenditure and monitoring the work of the Government through a committee system.

There are three standing committees of the Legislative Council, namely the Finance Committee, the Public Accounts Committee and the Committee on Members’ Interests. Standing committees, by virtue of section 9(1) of the Legislative Council (Powers and Privileges) Ordinance (Cap. 382), may order any person to give evidence, while all other committees may also have this power, where so authorized by the Council, under section 9(2) of Cap. 382.

There are other committees of a standing nature with specific functions stipulated in the Rules of Procedure (“RoP”), namely the Committee on Rules of Procedure, the Committee on Access to the Legislature’s Documents and Records, the House Committee and Panels.

The Committee on Rules of Procedure reviews RoP of the Council and the committee system and proposes to the Council such amendments or changes as are considered necessary.

The Committee on Access to the Legislature’s Documents and Records determines whether a document or record of the Legislature (or its committee) should be made available for access earlier than the expiry of the closure period specified in the Policy on Access to the Legislature’s Documents and Records.

The House Committee considers any matters relating to the business of the Council and monitors progress made in studying bills and subsidiary legislation. Bills and subsidiary legislation that require more in-depth study are scrutinized respectively by Bills Committees and subcommittees, and these committees would report their deliberations to the House Committee.

The committees that monitor and examine policy issues are called Panels. There are currently 18 Panels, the formation and terms of reference of which were approved by the Council on the recommendation of the House Committee. Each Panel shall consist of not less than 6 members and not more than 20 members including the Chairman.

Apart from the above, an investigation committee may be established under RoP 49B(2A) (Disqualification of Member from Office) upon the moving of a censure motion under RoP 49B(1A). After completing its work, the investigation committee is required to report to the Council and is dissolved after tabling of its report.

Select committees may be appointed by the Council for in-depth consideration of matters or bills.

The Finance Committee is one of the three standing committees of the Council. It scrutinizes and approves public expenditure proposals submitted by the Financial Secretary (“FS”). Each year, upon FS’s presentation of the Appropriation Bill to the Council, the President refers the Estimates of Expenditure to the Committee for examination and the Committee holds a series of special meetings for this purpose. After the Appropriation Bill has been passed, the Committee carries out the function of approving proposals to change the approved Estimates. Besides, the Committee approves proposals from FS to expend money from certain Funds¹ established under section 29 of the Public Finance Ordinance (Cap. 2) pursuant to the Resolutions on the Funds.

The Committee shall consist of not less than 50 members including the Chairman. Members of the Committee shall be those Members (other than the President) having signified membership in accordance with the Finance Committee Procedure.

Major work

• The Committee deliberated and approved 66 financial proposals involving a total commitment of about $143 billion;
• The major financial proposals approved by the Committee included:
  • public works projects involving a total commitment of about $122.6 billion, which included the Light Public Housing projects involving funding of about $14.9 billion;
  • non-public works funding proposals involving a total commitment of about $20.4 billion, which included the $10 billion commitment for the establishment of the Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One‑plus Scheme, and the $6.8 billion commitment for the Dedicated 100% Loan Guarantee Scheme for Cross-boundary Passenger Transport Trade and the Dedicated 100% Loan Guarantee Scheme for Battery Electric Taxis; and
  • 19 establishment proposals involving 38 directorate posts;
• The Committee held a series of special meetings comprising 21 sessions on 11 to 14 and 17 April 2023 to examine the 2023-2024 Estimates of Expenditure; and
• Prior to the special meetings, members raised about 3 500 written questions seeking written replies from the Government on the Estimates of Expenditure. About 70 supplementary questions and requests for additional information were referred to the Government for reply after the special meetings. The Council passed the Appropriation Bill 2023 on 3 May 2023.

[📄Report on the examination of the Estimates of Expenditure 2023-2024]

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  These Funds include Capital Works Reserve Fund, Capital Investment Fund, Loan Fund, Disaster Relief Fund, and Innovation and Technology Fund.

The Public Works Subcommittee examines the Government’s proposals to upgrade projects to or downgrade them from Category A of the Public Works Programme, or concerning changes to the scope of and approved estimates for Category A projects, and makes recommendations to the Finance Committee as appropriate. Projects belonging to Category A are those in all aspects ready for the award of contract and for construction works to proceed.

Major work

• During the session, the Subcommittee examined 35 proposals put forward by the Government, and recommended all of them to the Finance Committee for approval.

Local visits

Visit to the Light Public Housing mock-up unit

On 30 January 2023, the Subcommittee visited the Light Public Housing (“LPH”) mock-up unit set at the Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility to learn about the latest progress of the LPH projects.

Visit to the cavern construction site of the public works project on relocation of Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works to caverns

On 29 August 2023, the Subcommittee visited the cavern construction site of the public works project on relocation of Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works to caverns, to gain a better understanding on the scope and progress of, as well as the application of innovative technologies in the project.

Joint visit to Kai Tak Sports Park

On 17 October 2023, the Subcommittee and the Panel on Home Affairs, Culture and Sports conducted a joint visit to Kai Tak Sports Park to inspect its major venues to better understand the updated implementation progress.

Visit to the construction site of the Integrated Waste Management Facilities Phase 1 (I•PARK1)

On 5 December 2023, the Subcommittee visited the construction site of I•PARK1, located on an artificial island near Shek Kwu Chau, to get a better grasp on the implementation progress of Hong Kong’s first waste-to-energy facility for treating municipal solid waste.

The Establishment Subcommittee examines and makes recommendations to the Finance Committee on the Government’s proposals for the creation, redeployment and deletion of permanent and supernumerary directorate posts, and for changes to the structure of civil service ranks and grades.

Major work

• During the session, the Subcommittee examined 19 proposals put forward by the Government, and recommended all of them to the Finance Committee for approval.

The Public Accounts Committee is one of the three standing committees of the Council. It is responsible for considering the Director of Audit’s reports on the Government’s accounts, as well as the results of value for money audits carried out on the Government and other organizations within the purview of public audit.

Major work

• The Committee decided in the last session to defer public hearings on management of the development at Anderson Road project to this session to allow itself more time to consider the evidence and the issues raised about the subject. Two public hearings for detailed investigation of the subject were held in this session. Conclusions and recommendations of the Committee made on the basis of the evidence heard at public hearings are contained in the Public Accounts Committee Report No. 78A, which was tabled in Council on 19 April 2023;
• The Committee considered the Director of Audit’s Report on the Accounts of the Government for the year ended 31 March 2023, as well as Report Nos. 80 and 81 on the results of value for money audits, and examined the following subjects contained in the Reports:
  

  Report No. 80

  • administration of the Auxiliary Medical Service;
  • administration of the Equal Opportunities Commission;
  • Construction Innovation and Technology Fund;
  • Hong Kong Design Centre;
  • maintenance and improvement of school premises for aided schools;
  • management of public libraries;
  • provision of map products and spatial data services to the public by the Lands Department; and
  • Student Health Service; and

  Report No. 81

  • expansion of Tai Po Water Treatment Works;
  • licensing of food premises;
  • maintenance and modernisation of lifts and escalators in public rental housing estates;
  • provision of barrier-free facilities in public rental housing estates;
  • Recycling Fund;
  • regulatory control of food premises;
  • Reindustrialisation and Technology Training Programme; and
  • The Chinese University of Hong Kong: campus facilities operated by external entities;
• The Committee held two public hearings for detailed investigation of maintenance and improvement of school premises for aided schools selected from Report No. 80. The Committee’s Report containing its recommendations and conclusions was tabled at the Council on 12 July 2023; and
• Three public hearings were conducted by the Committee for detailed investigation of two subjects selected from Report No. 81, namely, licensing of food premises; and maintenance and modernisation of lifts and escalators in public rental housing estates. The Committee has planned to table its Report on these two subjects in Council in the next session.

[📄Reports of the Committee]

The Committee on Members’ Interests is one of the three standing committees of the Council. It examines the arrangements made for the compilation, maintenance and accessibility of the Register of Members’ Interests. It considers and investigates complaints in relation to Members’ registration and declaration of interests and their conduct concerning claims for the reimbursement of operating expenses or applications for advance of operating funds. It also considers matters of ethics in relation to Members’ conduct in their capacity as such, and gives advice and issues guidelines on such matters, etc.

Major work

• During the session, the Committee did not receive any complaint.

The Committee on Rules of Procedure reviews the Council’s Rules of Procedure and the committee system, and proposes to the Council any amendments or changes it considers necessary.

Major work

• During the session, in the light of the change in the timing for commencement and ending of legislative sessions starting from the Seventh Legislative Council,² the Committee considered how to address a technical issue arising from Rule 14(1) of the Rules of Procedure (“RoP”) in relation to the maximum interval between two Council meetings held in the same session. In considering the matter, the Committee noted that although the timing for commencement and ending of legislative sessions has changed, the Council’s well-functioning annual legislative work pattern has not. In order for the Council to continue its usual work pattern, the Committee recommended that RoP 14(1) be amended by repealing the requirement in relation to the maximum interval between two Council meetings held in the same session. The proposed amendment recommended by the Committee and endorsed by the House Committee was approved by the Council and took effect on 29 June 2023.

[📄Report of the Committee]

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  Starting from the Seventh Legislative Council, a legislative session runs from January to December of the same year instead of starting in October as in the past.

The Committee on Access to the Legislature’s Documents and Records determines whether a document or record of the Legislature (or its committee) should be made available for access earlier than the expiry of the closure period specified in the Policy on Access to the Legislature’s Documents and Records (“the Policy”) (Schedule 2 to the Rules of Procedure); sets guidelines for implementing the Policy; considers any objection against the denial of access to such a document or record by the Clerk to the Legislative Council; and considers any other matter relating to or arising from the Policy.

Major work

• The Committee approved access requests from Members/the Administration/public organizations/members of the public for closed documents and records of the Legislature before expiry of the closure period specified in the Policy [List of approved cases and list of denied cases]; and
• In accordance with the Policy, the Committee conducted reviews on the time-expired documents and records to see whether access could be made available [List of time-expired documents and records disclosed].

The House Committee normally meets weekly on Fridays to prepare for meetings of the Council and considers matters relating to the Council’s business while the Council is in session. An important function of the Committee is to decide the manner of consideration of bills introduced into the Council and subsidiary legislation tabled in Council or presented to the Council for approval. The Committee also serves as a focal point for establishing a formal and regular dialogue with the Government. The Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Committee meet with the Chief Secretary for Administration on a regular basis to discuss matters of mutual concern.

The Committee shall consist of not less than 50 members including the Chairman. Members of the Committee shall be those Members (other than the President) having signified membership in accordance with the House Rules.

Major work

• The Committee considered 39 bills introduced into the Council and formed 29 Bills Committees to scrutinize bills;
• The Committee considered 138 items of subsidiary legislation, 15 proposed resolutions presented by the Government and one non-legislative instrument, and formed 10 subcommittees to study 23 items of subsidiary legislation subject to negative vetting, one proposed resolution which relates to subsidiary legislation subject to positive vetting and one non-legislative instrument;³ and
• In addition, the Committee formed a subcommittee to study the Administration’s proposals for improving district governance and related matters.

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  The non-legislative instrument, namely the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process, is subject to a scrutiny mechanism similar to the negative vetting procedure

Subcommittees of the House Committee

The House Committee may appoint a subcommittee to assist its consideration of (a) an item of subsidiary legislation or an instrument made under an ordinance; or (b) an issue of public concern which falls outside the purview of Panels or straddles the purview of a number of Panels; or (c) any other matter relating to the business of the Council. A subcommittee appointed to consider items (a) and (c) shall consist of not less than 3 members and not more than 15 members including the Chairman whereas a subcommittee appointed to consider item (b) shall consist of not less than 3 members and not more than 20 members including the Chairman. The following subcommittees were in operation during the session.

The House Committee may allocate bills, other than the Appropriation Bill and bills not referred to the House Committee by the Council, to Bills Committees for detailed scrutiny. A Bills Committee will consider the principles and merits of the bill concerned and its detailed provisions, and may propose amendments to the bill. It shall consist of not less than 3 members and not more than 15 members including the Chairman. The Chairman of each Bills Committee is elected from among its members. After a Bills Committee has completed scrutiny of a bill, it notifies the House Committee and advises the Committee in writing of its deliberations. Bills Committees are dissolved upon enactment of the bills concerned or as decided by the House Committee.

The maximum number of Bills Committees that may be in operation at any one time is limited to 16. When more than 16 Bills Committees are formed, a queuing system will automatically be activated.

The House Committee may appoint subcommittees to assist its consideration of subsidiary legislation and instruments made under relevant ordinances. A subcommittee will consider the policy aspects of the subsidiary legislation/instrument concerned, its detailed provisions and amendments, if any, to the subsidiary legislation/instrument. It shall consist of not less than 3 members and not more than 15 members including the Chairman. The Chairman of each subcommittee is elected from among its members. A subcommittee reports its deliberations to the House Committee upon completion of scrutiny work. There is no restriction on the maximum number of such subcommittees operating at any one time.

Panels are committees of the Council. They provide a forum for Members to deliberate on policy matters and study issues relating to the policy areas of their corresponding bureaux which are of public concern. Items for discussion can be brought up by members of the Panel, referred to it by the House Committee or other committees, proposed by the Government, or raised by other Members following meetings with District Councils or upon receipt of complaints or representations. Panels also give views on major legislative and financial proposals before their introduction into the Council or Finance Committee.

A Panel may appoint subcommittees to study specific issues and present reports to the Council as it considers appropriate. A Panel or its subcommittee may meet jointly with other Panel(s) or its subcommittee(s) to consider any matter of common interest to the Panels.

The chairman and deputy chairman of a Panel are elected by and from among its members.

The 18 Panels are:

• Panel on Administration of Justice and Legal Services
• Panel on Commerce, Industry, Innovation and Technology
• Panel on Constitutional Affairs
• Panel on Development
• Panel on Economic Development
• Panel on Education
• Panel on Environmental Affairs
• Panel on Financial Affairs
• Panel on Food Safety and Environmental Hygiene
• Panel on Health Services
• Panel on Home Affairs, Culture and Sports
• Panel on Housing
• Panel on Information Technology and Broadcasting
• Panel on Manpower
• Panel on Public Service
• Panel on Security
• Panel on Transport
• Panel on Welfare Services

The Panel monitors and examines, consistent with maintaining the independence of the Judiciary and the rule of law, policy matters relating to the administration of justice and legal services.

Major work

• The Panel was briefed on the progress of policy measures of the Chief Secretary for Administration’s Office (“CSO”) in relation to the Judiciary and legal aid, and the policy initiatives of the Department of Justice (“DoJ”) in the 2023 Policy Address (including the defence and promotion of rule of law on all fronts; establishment of the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy; and deepening of the integration of legal practices in Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area);
• The Panel was briefed on the implementation of enhancement measures to the legal aid system by CSO and the Legal Aid Department, and on the use of technology in the Judiciary and issues related to waiting times for court proceedings by the Judiciary Administration;
• The Panel discussed the progress on the systematic review of statutory laws of Hong Kong as reported by the Law Reform Commission of Hong Kong, the latest developments relating to the mechanism on reciprocal enforcement of judgments between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and the mechanism for mutual service of judicial documents in civil and commercial proceedings between the two places;
• The Panel was consulted on the legislative proposals to amend the Criminal Procedure Ordinance (Cap. 221) and the Legal Practitioners Ordinance (Cap. 159); and the draft Courts (Remote Hearing) Bill; and
• The Panel was consulted on a staffing proposal on the creation of a Principal Government Counsel in the Prosecutions Division of DoJ and the proposed judicial service pay adjustment for 2023-2024.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Local visit

Visit to the Judiciary

On 2 June 2023, the Panel visited the Judiciary at the High Court Building and exchanged views with the Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal, the Chief Judge of the High Court and the Judiciary Administrator on issues of mutual concern, including the latest development on the use of technology in the Judiciary, the long time taken for the listing of cases in courts, shortage of judges and judicial officers, and matters related to the Family Procedure Bill.

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to commerce, industry, business and services promotion, innovation and technology (“I&T”), intellectual property protection and inward investment promotion.

Major work

• The Panel supported the Administration’s work to strengthen I&T collaboration with the Mainland, and called on the Administration to expedite the development of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen I&T Park in the Lok Ma Chau Loop;
• The Panel supported the proposed establishment of a New Industrialization Development Office under the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, which would be led by the new post of Commissioner for Industry (I&T) and adopt an industry-oriented approach to promote new industrialization. In addition to developing new technology industries, members called on the Administration to assist Hong Kong’s traditional manufacturing sector in upgrading and transformation by making use of I&T;
• The Panel supported the launch of a $10 billion “Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-plus Scheme” in October 2023, which was designed to promote collaboration among the Government, industry, academia and research sectors to accelerate commercialization of research and development outcomes. Members also put forward a number of suggestions on the operational details of the Scheme;
• The Panel had been following up the developments of Hong Kong Science Park and InnoParks. Members called on the Administration to step up efforts to attract enterprises to move into the Parks, and to better utilize the sites in the three InnoParks which had been left vacant for many years, so as to promote the development of the I&T industry;
• The Panel discussed the Administration’s measures to support and assist small and medium enterprises (“SMEs”), and supported the implementation of “Easy BUD”, an enhancement measure under the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales, to help SMEs raise their competitiveness. Members also called on the Administration to step up efforts to support Hong Kong enterprises to develop the Mainland domestic sales market, including promoting the development of cross-boundary e-commerce; and
• The Panel discussed the work of Invest Hong Kong in promotion of inward investment. Members suggested that the Administration should step up efforts to attract enterprises from emerging markets (e.g. the Belt and Road countries) to set up businesses in Hong Kong.

[📄Report of the Panel]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to the implementation of the Joint Declaration and the Basic Law, relations between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“HKSAR”) Government and the Central People’s Government and other Mainland authorities, electoral matters, district organizations, human rights, personal data protection and press freedom.

Major work

• The Panel held a joint meeting with the Panel on Home Affairs, Culture and Sports to discuss the Administration’s proposals on improving governance at the district level. Members were supportive of the proposals and considered that these proposals could strengthen the district governance structure and enhance governance efficacy at the district level;
• The Panel discussed the Administration’s preparatory work and the practical arrangements for the 2023 District Council Ordinary Election. Members called on the Administration to step up publicity for the election and take measures to facilitate electors working and living in the Mainland to vote in the election;
• The Panel was briefed on the Administration’s work on promoting the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China and the Basic Law. Members urged the Administration to strengthen promotion of the correct concepts of the constitutional order of the HKSAR and the “one country, two systems” principle among members of the public;
• The Panel was consulted on the proposed amendments to the Regional Flag and Regional Emblem Ordinance (Ord. No. 117 of 1997). Members were supportive of the proposed amendments and requested the Administration to step up education and publicity efforts to promote the proper use of the regional flag and regional emblem;
• The Panel received briefings by the Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission (“EOC”) and the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (“PCPD”) on the work of EOC and the office of PCPD respectively;
• The Panel discussed the reports submitted by the HKSAR under various United Nations (“UN”) human rights treaties and the outcome of the relevant UN meetings for consideration of the HKSAR’s reports; and
• The Subcommittee on Improving the Practical Arrangements for Elections established under the Panel commenced work in this session.

[📄Report of the Panel]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to lands, buildings, planning, water supply, development-related heritage conservation, Public Works Programme and other works matters.

Major work

• The Panel continued to monitor the Government’s work in relation to increasing land supply. Regarding the development of the Northern Metropolis, the Panel supported the staffing proposal for the establishment of the Northern Metropolis Co-ordination Office and gave views on the land use proposal of San Tin Technopole;
• The Panel was also consulted on a number of land-development related plans and public works projects. The major ones included the Preliminary Outline Development Plan for Tseung Kwan O Area 137 and related near shore reclamations; as well as the funding proposals on the Planning and Engineering Study for Lung Kwu Tan reclamation and the replanning of Tuen Mun West Area, and several cavern development projects. Members urged the Administration to introduce targeted measures to support the brownfield operations affected by government projects;
• In receiving an update on the development of a continuous and connected harbourfront, the Panel expressed appreciation for the Administration’s work and made suggestions on enhancing the continuity of harbourfront promenades as well as the management of harbourfront sites. The Panel was also consulted on the proposed framework for legislative amendments to the Protection of the Harbour Ordinance (Cap. 531);
• The Panel examined the progress on the work of the Urban Renewal Authority. Expressing concern regarding the challenges posed by the accelerating pace of urban decay, members considered that the Administration should formulate a more proactive strategy that makes greater use of market forces to speed up the pace of urban redevelopment;
• The Panel was very concerned about the severe flooding occurred in Wong Tai Sin and Hong Kong Island East during the onslaught of the super typhoon and the once-in-a-century torrential rain in September 2023. Members urged the Administration to implement necessary draining improvement works to strengthen Hong Kong’s capability in coping with extreme weather; and
• The Subcommittee to Study Policy Issues Relating to the Harbourfront established under the Panel commenced work in this session.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Local visits

Visit to New Territories Northwest

On 9 January 2024, the Panel visited New Territories Northwest to better understand the planning and latest development of San Tin Technopole and Kwu Tung North New Development Area as well as the regulation of the Shenzhen River.

Visit to the harbourfront development projects along Victoria Harbour

On 20 September 2023, the Subcommittee to Study Policy Issues Relating to the Harbourfront inspected the harbourfront development along Victoria Harbour on board a government launch to gain a better understanding of the planning and implementation progress of various harbourfront promenade projects.

Visit outside Hong Kong

Visit to Shanghai

From 19 to 21 December 2023, the Panel conducted a study visit to Shanghai to learn about the urban planning and management, new areas development, heritage conservation and revitalization, and emergency response and disaster prevention work in Shanghai, as well as to observe through site visits the municipality’s coastal and riverside development. Members gained insights into the latest developments in Shanghai in the above areas which would be conducive to discussions on relevant government policies and infrastructure projects by the Panel in future.

[📄Report of the visit]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to economic infrastructure and services, including air and sea transport facilities and services, postal services, consumer protection, competition policy and tourism.

Major work

• The Panel discussed the development of the Hong Kong International Airport and aviation services, and urged for a smooth transition to the new Three-Runway System and concurrent operation of three runways at the end of 2024;
• The Panel supported the legislative proposals to enhance the aircraft leasing preferential tax regime to attract more aircraft lessors to choose Hong Kong for their business. The Panel also suggested assigning a dedicated department or officer for promoting the aircraft leasing business and adopting a creative approach to expand the manpower resources of the industry;
• The Panel was briefed on the formulation of the Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development, and urged the Administration to ensure sufficient land supply for the logistics industry, enhance cross-departmental cooperation and cross-sectoral collaboration to meet the needs of modern logistics development;
• The Panel supported the legislative amendments for the implementation of the latest amendments made by the International Maritime Organization to the conventions relating to maritime safety as well as the legislative proposal to regulate drink and drug boating within Hong Kong waters;
• The Panel was briefed on the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s work plan for 2023-2024, and requested the Administration to conduct a comprehension assessment of the tourism industry chain, and strengthen the cooperation with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (“GBA”) to promote multi-destination tourism in GBA. The Panel was also updated on the operation of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort;
• The Panel supported the Dedicated 100% Loan Guarantee Scheme for Travel Sector to help eligible passenger service operators and licensed travel agents resolve short-term funding difficulties; and
• The Panel was briefed by the Competition Commission on its work and the implementation of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (Cap. 362). The Administration was requested to enhance investigations and enforcement actions to protect consumer interests.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Local visits

Visit to Hong Kong International Airport

On 11 July 2023, the Panel visited the Hong Kong International Airport to better understand its latest development and operations.

Visit to Kwai Tsing Container Terminals

On 7 November 2023, the Panel visited Kwai Tsing Container Terminals to gain an overview of the latest developments of the Terminals’ digital operations and the logistics industry, and to exchange views with representatives of the Terminals on the Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development and further promotion of the Smart Port development.

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to education.

Major work

• The Panel was briefed on the Education Bureau’s planning for the provision of public sector primary and secondary school places, as well as the latest development of the relevant measures, to cope with the changes in student population;
• The Panel received updates on the latest development of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics) education, life planning education, and vocational and professional education and training;
• The Panel closely monitored the implementation of Citizenship and Social Development subject for senior secondary education, including the arrangements for the Mainland study tours;
• The Panel exchanged views with the Administration on enhancing support for students with mental health needs, cross-boundary students, and special school students;
• The Panel continued to follow up with matters relating to teachers’ professional conduct and development, including professional training and exchange programmes in the Mainland;
• The Panel discussed the composition and funding mechanism of the University Grants Committee (“UGC”) and the Research Grants Council, and the governance of UGC-funded universities (including management of student-led activities and promotion of moral education);
• The Panel followed closely the review of Sub-degree Education and gave views on the launch of the Diploma of Applied Education Programme to replace the Diploma Yi Jin Programme;
• The Panel was consulted on a Member’s Bill to amend The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Ordinance (Cap. 1141) and a number of financial proposals, including extension of the current interest-free deferral of student loan repayment, construction of a special school for reprovisioning Hong Chi Lions Morninghill School, and construction of a new research building at the campus of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; and
• The Subcommittee to Study the Promotion of National and National Security Education established under the Panel completed its work in this session and submitted its report to the Panel in May 2023.

[📄Report of the Panel]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to environmental matters, energy matters (including energy supply and safety), conservation, sustainable development and weather information services.

Major work

• The Panel gave views on the preparatory work for the implementation of municipal solid waste charging, the proposed establishment of a common legislative framework for producer responsibility schemes, and the improvement measures for enhancing the operation of North East New Territories Landfill;
• The Panel received the Administration’s briefing on the progress of the implementation of food waste collection initiatives and the construction of the Organic Resources Recovery Centre Phase 2 (O•PARK2), and the main policy measures to promote the development of the recycling industry;
• The Panel exchanged views with the Administration on the strategies to support the charging network of electric vehicles and the conversion of petrol filling stations into quick charging stations;
• The Panel discussed the Fuel Clause Charges under the Monthly Fuel Cost Adjustment Mechanism for electricity tariffs, the approved 2024-2028 Development Plans of the two power companies, the annual tariff review and the interim review of the Scheme of Control Agreements in 2023. The Panel also followed up on issues arising from the power supply incident in some areas on Hong Kong Island on 19 April 2023;
• The Panel was consulted on the Administration’s strategies for improving air quality, proposed establishment of a Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area air quality laboratory and meteorological monitoring supersite in Hong Kong, as well as proposals to tighten the volatile organic compound (“VOC”) content limits of 22 types of regulated architectural paints and to extend the VOC control to seven types of cleaning products with a view to improving air quality;
• The Panel received the Administration’s briefing on the application of advanced smart technologies in water quality management and the latest progress of the implementation of the voluntary scheme for phasing out personal care and cosmetic products containing microbeads;
• The Panel was consulted on the Administration’s proposals to control domestic renovation noise, amend the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170) to regulate feeding of feral pigeons, and amend the Schedules to the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) to reflect the latest decisions of the Conference of Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora;
• The Panel was consulted on public works proposals, including provision of sewerage network in Sai Kung and North District, construction and rehabilitation of sewage rising mains in Cheung Sha Wan and Southern District, as well as construction of dry weather flow interceptors at Hung Hom, Causeway Bay and Tsuen Wan; and
• The Subcommittee to Study Policy Issues Relating to Municipal Solid Waste Charging, Recovery and Recycling established under the Panel completed its work in this session and submitted its report to the Panel in June 2023.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Local visits

Joint visit to the Citybus Hydrogen Refuelling Station and hydrogen bus

On 12 December 2023, the Panel conducted a joint visit with the Panel on Transport to the Citybus Hydrogen Refuelling Station and its hydrogen bus to understand the latest development in the adoption of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong’s public transportation.

Visit to the Organic Resources Recovery Centre Phase 1 and Phase 2

On 2 May 2023, the Subcommittee to Study Policy Issues Relating to Municipal Solid Waste Charging, Recovery and Recycling visited the Organic Resources Recovery Centre Phase 1 (O•PARK1) and Phase 2 (O•PARK2) to learn about the latest progress of work in local food waste recycling and waste-to-energy.

Visit outside Hong Kong

Visit to Mainland cities of the Greater Bay Area

From 7 to 9 August 2023, the Panel conducted a duty visit to three cities in the Greater Bay Area, namely Guangzhou, Foshan and Shenzhen, to obtain first-hand information about the latest developments of these cities in areas including adoption of new energy transport, clean energy and renewable energy, and technologies for turning waste to energy. The delegation met with leaders of the Department of Ecology and Environment of Guangdong Province during the visit. The visit provided insights and valuable references for strategies and technologies for electrification of public transport, development of electric vehicles charging facilities and smart photovoltaic power generation, as well as adoption of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong. The delegation also explored with the relevant Mainland authorities potential collaboration and capacity sharing for waste management.

[📄Report of the visit]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to financial and finance matters.

Major work

• The Panel exchanged views with the Financial Secretary on matters relating to Hong Kong’s macro-economic situations. Issues of concern raised by Members included government measures to expedite the pace of economic recovery in Hong Kong, details and progress of the work of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises in attracting enterprises and investments, and adjustment or withdrawal of various demand-side management and macro-prudential measures for the residential property market;
• During briefings by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Members discussed with the Authority subjects including the impact of external investment environment on the stability of Hong Kong’s financial system, investment performance of the Exchange Fund, support for small and medium and innovation and technology enterprises in addressing difficulties in opening bank accounts, and development of financial infrastructure and financial technologies (Fintech);
• The Panel received the Administration’s briefing on the objectives, guiding principles and key features of the proposed policy holder’s protection scheme (“PPS”), including the proposed coverage, options of compensation limit, and funding and administrative arrangements. Members expressed support for the establishment of PPS, so as to provide a safety net for policy holders in the event of insurer insolvency;
• The Panel continued to monitor progress of the development of the electronic mandatory provident fund platform (“eMPF Platform”) project. Members expressed grave concern on the likely delay of the completion of system development work of the eMPF Platform and the delivery of a fully functional eMPF Platform by the project contractor by eight months. Members sought information on the measures in place to ensure that there would be no further slippage in system delivery, and that the contractor could catch up on the progress while ensuring the quality of the system was up to standard; and
• The Panel was briefed by the Administration, the Securities and Futures Commission and the Investor and Financial Education Council on the policy initiatives of and latest development on the regulation of virtual asset (“VA”) trading platforms, including implementation of the licensing regime as well as related publicity and investor education efforts. Members expressed concern on the possible loopholes in the promotion, marketing and sales practices of VAs at present, and suggested that the Administration should step up regulation on persons who were engaged in introducing and selling VA services or products to the public. Members also stressed the need to step up investor education with a view to enhancing public awareness of the risks associated with VAs and potential fraudulent behaviour.

[📄Report of the Panel]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to food safety, environmental hygiene and agriculture and fisheries.

Major work

• The Panel followed up with the Administration on the latest position of the food safety measures adopted in response to Japan’s discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Fukushima Nuclear Power Station. Members expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the import control measures on Japanese food products and the need to step up radiological testing on imported Japanese food products, as well as the impact of the discharge on relevant local trades (e.g. the fisheries industry and catering trade);
• Members supported the Administration’s proposal to amend the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD) to keep local standards of preservatives/antioxidants in food on par with international standards and enhance consumer protection;
• Members were generally supportive of the Administration’s proposals to (a) raise the levels of fixed penalties for littering, shopfront extension (“SFE”), disposal of waste, etc., under the Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness and Obstruction) Ordinance (Cap. 570); and (b) amend the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) to improve a number of “long-standing, big and difficult” environmental hygiene and street management problems such as SFE, water seepage in buildings and “garbage apartments”;
• The Panel discussed and supported the Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries, which was formulated by the Government in collaboration with the agriculture and fisheries industries. Members called on the Administration to work hand in hand with the trade to implement the measures outlined in the blueprint for promoting the industries to adopt sustainable modes of operation, enabling the industries to cope with the changing business environment and integrating into the overall development of the Mainland, with a view to achieving more diversified development of the industries;
• The Panel was consulted on the proposed works project to construct a joint-user complex with a public market in Area 67 of Tseung Kwan O. Members expressed support for the project and were pleased to note that the proposed public market was expected to provide two live poultry stalls amongst its 140-odd stalls; and
• When discussing the Administration’s policies and work regarding bazaars, members called for the formulation of a set of clear and simple guidelines on applications for holding bazaars, and the simplification of relevant procedures to better promote bazaar activities.

[📄Report of the Panel]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to medical and health services.

Major work

• The Panel supported and made suggestions on the Primary Healthcare Blueprint, such as the site selection for and functions of District Health Centres, the “family doctor for all” regime, enhancement of the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme, and the Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme;
• The Panel was concerned about whether the Administration had reviewed how its new round of supply and demand projections of healthcare manpower could be adjusted, to avoid the deviation between projection and actual situation found previously in some healthcare professions. The Administration was also requested to set a target ratio of the number of doctors per 1 000 population. In addition, the Panel supported the Administration’s proposals to amend the Dentists Registration Ordinance (Cap. 156) and Nurses Registration Ordinance (Cap. 164) to provide new pathways for the admission of qualified non-locally trained dentists and nurses;
• The Panel was briefed on the 10 enhanced measures on mental health services introduced by the Administration in light of the unfortunate incident involving a psychiatric patient on 2 June 2023. While welcoming the measures, members raised concerns on numerous suicidal cases of students since September 2023 and of the elderly in individual public housing estates. Views were therefore expressed and suggestions were made on matters such as how to strengthen mental health services for children, young people and the elderly, overall planning for mental health services, “conditional discharge” mechanism, and drug treatment; and
• The Panel discussed the Administration’s legislative framework concerning the legislative proposals on advance directives (“ADs”) and dying in place. The Administration was requested to introduce an electronic and centralized registration system for ADs and streamline the process for amending ADs. Concern was also expressed on how the Administration would provide the end-of-life care and medical support required by terminally ill patients if they preferred dying in place.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Visit outside Hong Kong

Visit to the Big Data Centre of National Health Commission for Human Tissue, Organ Transplant and Medicine in Guangzhou

On 29 July 2023, the Panel visited the Big Data Centre of National Health Commission for Human Tissue, Organ Transplant and Medicine in Guangzhou to learn about the operation of systems relating to organ donation, allocation and transplant in the Mainland.

[📄Report of the visit]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to district, community and rural matters, civic education, building management, youth matters, women matters, Family Council, provision of leisure and cultural services, development of arts and culture, public entertainment, sports and recreation.

Major work

• The Panel was briefed on the policies and the latest situation of the Administration’s efforts in promoting sports development. Members requested the Administration to further promote sports development in Hong Kong through enhanced professionalism in the sports sector and the development of sports as an industry;
• The Panel discussed the Administration’s work in supporting athletes with disabilities (“AWDs”). Members welcomed the launch of a five-year pilot programme on career and education for AWDs to equip them with knowledge, skill sets and career planning skills so as to facilitate their integration into society and post-athletic transformation for their second-career development;
• The Panel was briefed on the Administration’s measures to promote cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and the Mainland as well as the rest of the world. Members requested the Administration to encourage the diversification of arts and cultural industries in Hong Kong, and to step up efforts to drive arts and cultural collaboration within the Greater Bay Area;
• The Panel welcomed the formation of the District Services and Community Care Teams (“Care Teams”) in Tsuen Wan and Southern District in May 2023. Members were pleased to note that Care Teams in the remaining districts would be formed progressively in the third quarter of 2023;
• The Panel supported the legislative amendment proposals for the Building Management Ordinance (Cap. 344) covering four areas, namely large-scale maintenance projects and procurement in general, keeping of minutes, financial statements, as well as criminal sanctions;
• The Panel held a joint meeting with the Panel on Constitutional Affairs to receive a briefing by the Administration on the proposals on improving governance at the district level. Members were supportive of the proposals and considered that these proposals could fundamentally improve governance at the district level and strengthen the district governance structure; and
• The Subcommittee on Promoting Family Education established under the Panel commenced work in this session.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Joint visit to Kai Tak Sports Park

On 17 October 2023, the Panel and the Public Works Subcommittee conducted a joint visit to Kai Tak Sports Park to inspect its major venues and gain better understanding of the updated implementation progress.

Visit to Hong Kong Sports Institute

On 14 November 2023, the Panel visited the Hong Kong Sports Institute to better understand its latest development and exchange views with athletes.

Visit to Hangzhou

From 31 July to 3 August 2023, the Panel conducted a duty visit to Hangzhou to gain first-hand information about Hangzhou’s policies and measures for promoting the industrialization of sports and sports in the community, Hangzhou’s recent development of the cultural industry, and to study the preparatory work for the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou (“19th Asian Games”). The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin YEUNG Yun-hung, and other government officials also participated in the duty visit. The delegation visited a number of major sports, arts and cultural venues and facilities, and had in-depth exchanges of views with leaders of the provincial and municipal governments concerned.

The delegation considered the duty visit particularly fruitful. Apart from enabling Members to learn from the experience of Hangzhou in preparing for the 19th Asian Games, the visit also facilitated the discussion between the Legislative Council and the Administration on the strategies for promoting sports development in Hong Kong, enhancing Hong Kong as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, as well as promoting the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism.

[📄Report of the visit]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to private and public housing.

Major work

• The Panel discussed the housing-related initiatives in the 2023 Policy Address and sought details on measures to monitor the pace of implementation of public housing development projects. Members urged the Administration to include resettlement arrangements for the tenants of subdivided units in the scope of study of the new Task Force on Tackling the Issue of Subdivided Units;
• The Panel discussed the funding proposal for the second batch of Light Public Housing (“LPH”) providing about 13 000 units. While supporting the proposal, members expressed concerns about the reusability of the Modular Integrated Construction modules used, adequacy of supporting services and facilities for tenants, and popularity and occupancy rate of LPH projects;
• The Panel studied the Hong Kong Housing Authority (“HA”)’s application of innovation and technology in public housing development and construction projects. Members gave views on ways to compress the implementation timetable for public housing development projects;
• The Panel examined the results of the Administration’s review of income and asset limits for public rental housing (“PRH”) for 2023-2024. Members suggested that HA should review the mechanism for adjusting the PRH income limits which, in members’ view, were set too low to realistically reflect the household expenditure of PRH applicants; and
• The Subcommittee on Issues Relating to the Improvement of Living Conditions of the Grass-roots Tenants established under the Panel completed its work in this session and submitted its report to the Panel in June 2023.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Visit to Blissful Place of the Hong Kong Housing Society

On 2 June 2023, the Panel visited Blissful Place of the Hong Kong Housing Society (“HKHS”) in Hung Hom, a project under the Senior Citizen Residences Scheme of HKHS, to learn about the latest work plans of the scheme and the residential, recreation, medical and care services provided for the elderly by Blissful Place.

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to information technology, telecommunications, broadcasting, film services and creative industry.

Major work

• The Panel discussed the implementation of measures set out in the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint. Members called on the Administration to expedite the development of infrastructure projects related to innovation and technology (“I&T”). On the development of the fifth generation mobile communications (“5G”), members urged the Administration to strengthen 5G infrastructure as soon as possible. Concerns were also raised regarding the spectrum assignment and the auctioning arrangements;
• The Panel exchanged views with the Administration on strategies related to nurturing high- and mid-end I&T talent, as well as general technical staff. Members considered that the existing policy on manpower and industrial resources should be enhanced to attract more overseas enterprises and talent to settle in Hong Kong. Members also suggested that the Administration should strengthen coordination and cooperation among relevant bureaux and government departments to promote popular science education at the primary level, with the aim of nurturing young I&T talent from an early age;
• The Panel continued to monitor the implementation of e-Government services and the “iAM Smart” government services platform. Members called on the Administration to upgrade the functions of “iAM Smart” and boost its utilization rate. Additionally, members emphasized the need to strengthen data exchange among government services, enabling the public to access commonly used government services directly through “iAM Smart”. On cross-boundary e-‍Government services, members discussed measures with the Administration to facilitate data exchange in the digital infrastructure between Guangdong and Hong Kong, specifically for the convenience of Hong ‍Kong residents residing in the Mainland to access Hong Kong government services;
• On broadcasting issues, members expressed support for Radio Television Hong Kong (“RTHK”) to produce more thematic programmes that showcased good stories about both the country and Hong Kong. Members also raised concerns about the construction of a new RTHK Broadcasting House and suggested that the Government should develop project proposals that prioritize simplicity and practicality; and
• The Panel received the Administration’s briefing on the efforts of “Create Hong Kong” in promoting the development of the creative industries and the work of Hong Kong Design Centre. Members requested the Administration to provide additional support for Hong Kong’s film industry. To enhance the development of Hong Kong’s fashion design industry, members emphasized the need for the Administration to intensify efforts in nurturing fashion design talent and supporting overall industry development, with the aim of establishing Hong Kong as a prominent fashion design hub in Asia.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Visit to Radio Television Hong Kong

On 16 June 2023, the Panel visited Radio Television Hong Kong to enhance Members’ understanding of the work of the public service broadcaster.

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to labour, manpower planning, vocational training and education, and qualifications framework.

Major work

• The Panel followed up with the Administration on various measures to trawl for talents and alleviate manpower shortages. Members considered that the Administration should provide more facilitation and support to incoming talents on one hand, and strengthen the protection of the employment rights of imported workers and the training for local workers on the other hand;
• The Panel followed up with the Administration on occupational safety in the workplace. Members expressed particular concern about the occupational safety performance of the construction industry. The Administration was urged to actively promote the introduction of the concept of Construction Design and Management as well as the wider application of “Smart Site Safety System” to uplift construction safety;
• The Panel discussed and supported the Administration’s proposal to introduce the Guidance Notes on Prevention of Heat Stroke at Work with a view to enhancing the protection of the occupational health of employees working in very hot weather. Members called on the Administration to review the content of the guidance notes to cater to the modes of operation of different industries;
• The Panel was briefed on the measures taken by the Administration for protecting digital platform workers. Members made various suggestions on enhancing the protection for these workers;
• The Panel discussed and supported the fertility promotion initiatives as announced in the 2023 Policy Address, and provided suggestions on how to further enhance the fertility rate; and
• The Panel was briefed on the Administration’s decision not to pursue the Designated Savings Account Scheme (one of the supporting measures for the abolition of the “offsetting” arrangement under the Mandatory Provident Fund System) as originally planned. Some members expressed concern about the absence of a mandatory saving scheme for employers. The Administration was urged to consider raising the ex gratia payment ceiling for severance payment under the Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund in order to accord better protection for employees.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Visit to the Occupational Safety and Health Academy

On 30 May 2023, the Panel visited the Occupational Safety and Health Academy in Tsing Yi to learn more about the training facilities of the academy designed to improve the occupational safety and health of practitioners of different industries.

Visit to the Construction Sector Imported Labour Quarters

On 19 December 2023, the Panel visited the Construction Sector Imported Labour Quarters in Tam Mi, Yuen Long, to better understand its daily management and operating arrangements.

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to the civil service and the staff of government-funded public bodies and other public service organizations.

Major work

• The Panel received updates on civil service establishment and strength, training and development for civil servants, as well as employment of Non-Civil Service Contract staff. Members made a number of suggestions on measures to attract, nurture and retain talents;
• The Panel followed closely the manpower situation of lifeguards of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the effectiveness of the measures to increase and stabilize the manpower provision of lifeguards;
• The Panel reviewed the implementation of five-day week in the Government since its introduction in 2006, and urged for full implementation as soon as practicable;
• The Panel discussed and supported the promulgation of the streamlined mechanism for retiring civil servants in the public interest on grounds of persistent sub-standard performance under Section 12 of the Public Service (Administration) Order;
• The Panel gave views on the newly introduced “government-wide mobilization” level under the enhanced mobilization protocol, measures to promote volunteer service in the civil service, and Civil Service Bureau’s work in promoting a clean civil service;
• The Panel was consulted on the updated Civil Service Code (Draft for Consultation) and two staffing proposals, including reorganization of the directorate establishment of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit and the creation of four permanent directorate posts in the Civil Service College and one in the General Grades Office; and
• The Subcommittee to Follow Up Issues Relating to Benefits for Civil Servants, Retired Civil Servants and Eligible Persons established under the Panel commenced work in this session.

[📄Report of the Panel]

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to security, public order, public safety, corruption-related matters, and nationality and immigration matters.

Major work

• On safeguarding national security, the Panel supported the target of the Administration to complete the legislative exercise for enacting local legislation on Article 23 of the Basic Law within 2024 and urged the Administration to launch extensive explanatory and publicity work for the legislative exercise. For the upcoming bill on the cybersecurity obligations of operators of critical infrastructure, the Panel suggested that reference be made to the relevant regulations of the Mainland;
• The Panel gave views on how the youth development work of the Security Bureau and its disciplined and auxiliary services departments could scale new heights to nurture a generation of youths with positive thinking, aspirations to serve the community, and national identity awareness. Suggestions were separately made on enhancing the Correctional Services Department’s rehabilitation services for persons in custody to facilitate these persons to reintegrate into society, whether for further education or employment, after release;
• On strengthening emergency preparedness, the Panel called on the Administration to bring up the community’s capabilities in the use of automated external defibrillator in case of emergencies; enhance its emergency response capability for nuclear emergencies that might affect Hong Kong; and ensure the availability of legal backing and preparedness of relevant units for the future implementation of the new Greater Bay Area Emergency Response and Rescue Operational Plan;
• To enhance the law enforcement capability, the Panel was in general supportive of the Administration’s financial proposals to bring up the Hong Kong Police Force’s maritime operational capability and digital policing capability, and redevelop Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre and Hong Kong Correctional Services Academy Multipurpose Gymnasium. The Panel also urged the Administration to strengthen its efforts in staff retention and building up a pool of talents for the disciplined services. Relevant law enforcement agencies should also actively involve themselves in international and regional law enforcement cooperation to, among others, enhance Hong Kong’s status in integrity building and trade facilitation;
• The Panel made suggestions to the Administration on strengthening its law enforcement measures to combat all types of frauds and keeping its anti-drug strategies abreast of time. It supported the Administration’s legislative proposal to classify five substances as dangerous drugs, and requested the Administration to monitor the abuse trend for Xylazine to evaluate the need to regulate it as a dangerous drug; and
• The Panel was in general supportive of the Administration’s legislative proposals relating to electronic licensing for security companies, promotion of a wider use of portable equipment at homes, and raising the fees for services under the purview of the Hong Kong Police Force.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Local visits

Visit to the Government Flying Service’s Flight Simulator Training Centre and the dog base of the Customs Canine Force

On 9 May 2023, the Panel visited the Government Flying Service’s Flight Simulator Training Centre and the dog base of the Customs Canine Force to learn more about the work of the two disciplined services.

Visit to correctional facilities

On 2 June 2023, the Panel visited five correctional facilities to enhance Members’ understanding on the rehabilitation services provided by the Correctional Services Department for young people in custody.

Visit to Sha Tau Kok and Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point

On 11 July 2023, the Panel visited Sha Tau Kok and Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point to learn more about the gradual opening up of the Sha Tau Kok Frontier Closed Area and the operation of the control point.

Visit to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre

On 12 December 2023, the Panel visited Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre to better understand its current situation and future development plan.

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to transport matters (including those on railways).

Major work

• The Panel was briefed in April 2023 on the outcome of the review on the MTR Fare Adjustment Mechanism (“FAM”), which included proposals to link the calculation of the Productivity Factor in the FAM formula to the Hong Kong property development profit of the MTR Corporation Limited. The Panel supported the said proposals, which would ensure a fare reduction of at least 0.6% each year under all scenarios, and called for the cancellation of the unrecouped fare increase rate;
• The Panel criticized the fare increase applications from five franchised bus operators in 2023, and strongly urged the Administration to perform its gatekeeping role to ensure that the fare increase rates would be acceptable to the public, as well as to assist bus operators in generating more non-farebox revenue;
• The Panel discussed the Hong Kong Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint in December 2023. While generally supported the enhancements to the railway system and major roads to enhance accessibility of the Northern Metropolis and the construction of the smart and green mass transit systems in Kai Tak and East Kowloon, the Panel expressed concern about the Administration’s decision to abandon the heavy rail option for the South Island Line (West) and to stall the North Island Line;
• The Panel received two briefings in July and December 2023 on the latest progress and initial recommendations of the Traffic and Transport Strategy Study respectively. The Panel gave suggestions on the new generation Transport Interchange Hubs and expressed concern on the role of other non-railway public transport operators, the provision of park-and-ride facilities and parking spaces, as well as the operational feasibility of the proposed “On-demand Public Transport Mode”;
• The Panel was consulted on a number of infrastructural projects, including Trunk Road T4 in Sha Tin and improvement works at Tsuen Tsing Interchange; recommendations to enhance the physical fitness certification requirements for driving licence applicants/holders; and the legislative proposal to establish a regulatory framework for the use of electric mobility devices in Hong Kong; and
• The Subcommittee on Matters Relating to Railways established under the Panel continued its work in this session.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Local visits

Visit to Hong Kong Productivity Council

On 28 March 2023, the Panel visited the Hong Kong Productivity Council to better understand its latest development and innovation projects.

Visit to the Modular Integrated Construction lift assembly yard

On 21 July 2023, the Panel visited the Modular Integrated Construction lift assembly yard to learn about the Government’s latest progress in building barrier-free facilities in public walkways.

Visit to the administration building of Western Harbour Crossing

On 27 November 2023, the Panel visited the administration building of Western Harbour Crossing to observe the cross-harbour traffic flow during morning peak hours, as well as the arrangements for and technical readiness of time-varying tolls before their implementation at the three road harbour crossings.

Joint visit to the Citybus Hydrogen Refuelling Station and hydrogen bus

On 12 December 2023, the Panel conducted a joint visit with the Panel on Environmental Affairs to the Citybus Hydrogen Refuelling Station and its hydrogen bus to understand the latest development in the adoption of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong’s public transportation.

The Panel monitors and examines government policies and issues of public concern relating to welfare, rehabilitation services, poverty and social enterprise.

Major work

• The Panel followed up with the Administration on the welfare support for persons with disabilities (“PWDs”), which included employment support and financial assistance, proposed establishment of a dedicated committee for PWDs, and improvement of residential and day care services. To gather public input on this matter, a special meeting was convened;
• The Panel gave views on the Administration’s policies and facilitating measures for elderly care, with a focus on enabling ageing in place. This included discussions on the implementation of the Elderly Services Programme Plan and the Standardised Care Need Assessment Mechanism for Elderly Services. The Panel also discussed issues relating to community care services, gerontechnology, and the Residential Care Service Voucher Scheme for the Elderly;
• The Panel was briefed on the Administration’s measures to enhance the quality of residential care homes (“RCH”) for the elderly and for PWDs, including the special scheme to import care workers, training for professionals providing healthcare services in RCHs, and the skill and qualification requirements of RCH staff;
• The Panel reviewed the Administration’s policies, measures and initiatives for enhancing the support and assistance to the underprivileged groups in the community, such as children with special educational needs, single parent families and homeless people;
• The Panel received a briefing on measures to enhance support for carers. Members emphasized the importance of defining carers and urged the strengthening of financial support, peer connections, and respite services to better assist carers;
• The Panel was provided with an update on the Administration’s plans for welfare facility projects funded by the Lotteries Fund, and the enhanced measures of the Incentive Scheme to Encourage Provision of Residential Care Homes for the Elderly Premises in New Private Developments;
• The Subcommittee on Increasing the Provision of Residential Care Places for the Elderly established under the Panel completed its work in this session and submitted its report to the Panel in July 2023; and
• The Subcommittee on Issues Relating to Policy on Monitoring Child Protection Agencies and the Subcommittee on Promoting Carer-centric Policies established under the Panel commenced work in this session.

[📄Report of the Panel]

Visit outside Hong Kong

Visit to Mainland cities of the Greater Bay Area

From 30 to 31 August 2023, the Panel conducted a duty visit to Mainland cities of the Greater Bay Area (“GBA”), including Guangzhou and Foshan. The duty visit aimed to (a) gather first-hand information on elderly and rehabilitation services in the Mainland as well as better understand the needs of Hong Kong residents who retire there; (b) exchange views with service providers in Mainland cities of GBA regarding the challenges and practices in delivering such services; and (c) explore collaboration opportunities in areas such as elderly care, rehabilitation services and social welfare with Mainland cities of GBA.

Through visiting the elderly and rehabilitation services in Mainland cities of GBA, as well as meeting with local government representatives and service providers, the delegation gained invaluable insights on ways to leverage the advantages of GBA to strengthen collaboration between the two places, with a view to expanding the scope and capacity of elderly services, and providing Hong Kong elderly people with high-quality retirement options in the Mainland, thereby meeting their elderly care needs.

[📄Report of the visit]