Advertisement
Hong Kong government confirms advisory role of unit to CY Leung was a ‘top-level decision’
Leader’s confidante from highly criticised Central Policy Unit gave recommendations on appointments, but ‘no records’ exist
Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
It was a “top-level decision” for a confidante of outgoing chief executive Leung Chun-ying to go through all advisory body appointments, the government confirmed for the first time on Wednesday, adding however that there were “no records” of the names reviewed over his five-year term.
This comes after chief executive-elect Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor vowed to undo the practice – introduced by Leung – which was widely dismissed by pan-democrats as a form of favouritism.
In a special finance committee session, Legislative Council members were told that Sophia Kao Ching-chi from the Central Policy Unit provided “advice” on appointments in relation to statutory bodies and advisory committees.
Advertisement
Kao was Leung’s campaign aide in 2012 during his bid for the city’s top job.
Asked why a unit designated to focus on policy research became a “HR department”, CPU deputy head Olivia Nip Sai-lan called it a “government top-level decision”, without naming Leung.
Advertisement
Nip insisted the different bureaus ultimately remained responsible for appointments in bodies under their purview.
Advertisement
Select Voice
Select Speed
1.00x