LettersIf Chinese University council is to be reformed, consider removing seats for legislators

Readers discuss the private member’s bill proposing changes to a university ordinance, how the Fringe Club can revive its fortunes, and the need to speed up the use of electric buses in Hong Kong

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“The Gate of Wisdom”, a sculpture by Ju Ming, at the entrance to the Chinese University of Hong Kong library on May 12. Photo: Jelly Tse

Published: 11:30am, 7 Sep 2023

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I was disturbed by the saga of the private member’s bill proposing changes to the Chinese University of Hong Kong Ordinance. Since Chinese University is a legal entity governed by its own ordinance, any amendment of its ordinance should originate from its council rather than from three lawmakers who are also members of the council.

As I far as I understand, the proper process is for the council to pass a resolution on the proposed changes to the ordinance, then seek a time slot for the legislature to process the amendment bill. A university might seek to expedite the amendment bill by presenting it as a private member’s bill. It seems unusual for a legislator himself or herself (three in this case), instead of the council, to present the legislative changes.

Although the three are members of the university council, it does not seem that the council delegated to them the authority to present the bill. In essence, was it the council’s resolution or was it the three council members’ proposal that was presented to the bills committee?

It is also not clear to me if they have declared any potential conflict of interest in their proposal which argued for retaining the three seats on the council for legislators, as they themselves currently sit on the council in such a capacity.

To follow international practices for good governance of higher education institutions, there should be a clear majority of external members who can give independent views, act in the best interests of the institution and avoid sectoral interests.