EditorialTrust of the people rests on them always being fully consulted
- Criticism by some parties that they have been left in the dark by authorities over a mega Hong Kong project does not bode well for unity or harmony
Public consultation is an important part of policymaking. It gives people a voice and lets them feel counted in the process of governance. It also helps build consensus and make decisions in line with people’s aspirations and needs.
The Hong Kong government has a tradition of engaging stakeholders on different matters, although it has resulted in criticism from time to time.
The latest controversy involves the Lantau Tomorrow Vision, a HK$580 billion artificial islands project to help meet development needs in the next few decades.
Critics say the government has deliberately adopted a low-key consultation approach to avoid disputes, but officials are adamant that the exercise has reached out to the community, and point to the number of meetings, submissions, exhibition attendances and online page views as proof.
Whether the government has resorted to any manipulative tactics is a matter of judgment. But given the scale and impact of such a mega project, officials could have been more proactive in explaining its details.
Not only should the government listen to different views, and be seen to be doing so, but also adjustments have to be made when public feedback warrants them.