7
-
appointed.
The composition of this
session's membership
to
already reflects a movement towards the likely composition of the Council next year, with two fewer officials and three more unofficials. As we look forward to the new era, I would
like to pay tribute to all those who are serving
are serving and have served in an appointed capacity. The fact that you have not been elected has in no way reduced your determination serve the community to the best of your ability. The success of Hong Kong over the last two decades owes much to the devotion to duty and to the well-being of the community, of members in this Council. Hong Kong has been well served by the appointment system, but now history moves on.
20.
(ii) Powers and Privileges Bill
This session will see the introduction of a
a bill of some significance to the functioning of this Council, the Legislative Council (Powers & Privileges) Bill.
The purpose of this bill is to confirm the privilege of members
statement in debate; provide assurances that members can perform their duties according to their conscience; and introduce powers to hear evidence on matters of public interest. The bill follows well-trodden ground. But it will
be a timely measure for Hong Kong.
(iii) New Legislative Council Chamber
21.
This is also the last session which we shall hold
in this Chamber. When I deliver my Address to you next year I shall be doing so in what we still call for the present the
old Supreme Court building. The move will assist the legislature to achieve in the public eye a new and distinct identity, quite separate from the executive as represented by the Governor, the Executive Council and the civil service.
/(iv) Public