•.8
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MR LUCE'S VISIT TO HONG KONG:
25-28 FEBRUARY 1984
BRIEF NO8: MEETING WITH UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE
AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS (UMELCO)
ROLE OF UMELCO
1.
UMELCO consists of Unofficial Members of Executive Council
(EXCO) and Legislative Council (LEGCO). An institution unique to Hong Kong, with functions as an organisation that go far
beyond the role of individual Unofficials as members of EXCO
and LEGCO.
2. By taking part in process of government, Unofficial Members of both Councils play significant role in administration of
Hong Kong. They advise on formulation of government policies, participate in enactment of legislation, consider complaints
by members of public against government departments and monitor effectiveness of public administration. Unofficial members are
selected by Governor from wide spectrum of society and outside
two councils hold more than 300 seats on various committees and boards dealing with public and community affairs.
3. UMELCO office, funded by the Government, provides research
and administrative assistante to Unofficial Members. UMELCO
Office is also established channel for the redress of grievances, and handles all public complaints, appeals and representations
addressed to Unofficial Members alleging official maladministration.
Under UMELCO redress system, members have right of access to
Government records and senior officials and to challenge established
practices and policies of government departments. When necessary they bring important issues to attention of either of the two
councils.
4. Unofficial Members spend much time studying all Government
Bills and any course of government action which is important or
controversial or about which representations are received from
public bodies or from members of public. UMELCO Police Group, which consists of seven Unofficial Members and Attorney-General,
monitors handling of complaints against police. ICAC Complaints
/Committee
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