LegCo Paper No. CB(2) 206/96-97(01)

LegCo Panel on Public Service
Outstanding Items for Discussion
(as at 22 October1996)

1. Transition of the civil service

Members decided on 26 March 1996 that this will be a standing item for discussion every month. The Administration will be invited to report on the progress and developments of issues that would affect the smooth transition of the civil service during the run-up to the change of sovereignty.

2. Expenditure on civil service pay and benefits

At the meeting on 7 October 1996, members enquired of the reasons for the rapid increase in government expenditure on civil service pay and benefits during the period from 1991-92 to 1996-97, against a reduction in the number of civil servants during the same period. Members agreed to follow up on the issue pending receipt of relevant information from the Administration.

3. Regulations on the appointment, removal and discipline of civil servants after 1997

The Administration informed members on 7 October 1996 that various options were being examined to provide continuity of authority for the appointment, removal and discipline of civil servants. This is necessary as the Colonial Regulations will lapse on 30 June 1997. The Administration will make proposals to the Legislative Council, probably before end of 1996, if new legislation is required.

LegCo Secretariat
22 October 1996

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