Look at big picture and let Leung put new government structure in place
The Hong Kong Civic Association firmly supports the proposed new organisation structure of the government as envisaged by chief executive-elect Leung Chun-ying, to be implemented on July 1 when the new administration takes over.
Compared to the present organisation, the chief secretary for administration and financial secretary in the new structure will each have a deputy secretary who will be a politically appointed official. As such, there will be more interaction between the secretaries and legislative councillors and with the public.
The creation of two new bureaus - for culture, and technology and communications - is in keeping with 21st century trends in global cities like Hong Kong. The heads of these new bureaus will also be politically appointed officials so as to have greater transparency and co-operative links with stakeholders. This will enable Hong Kong to be more innovative and competitive as an international technology and cultural Hub.
Mr Leung is responsible to the central government and the people of Hong Kong and it is important he has his new government structure in place by July 1 so it is ready and able to cope with the challenges and opportunities that Hong Kong will face in this fast-changing world.
The new structure has already been approved by the Executive Council. Mr Leung has had daily meetings with community groups at the grass roots and other levels to explain his plans and to listen to their views.
Our association urges all lawmakers to look at the big picture and approve the new organisation structure so it is operational as of July 1. From then on, they can monitor, criticise and propose changes to improve the performance of the chief executive and his political team for the overall benefit and well-being of Hong Kong's seven million people.
Hilton Cheong-Leen, president, Frederick Lynn, chairman, Hong Kong Civic Association
