47
procedure.
The changes will also affect
the
way the
administration
and
the
Executive Council
work
with this
Council in dealing with the business of government. As our
to
system of government evolves and becomes more complex, we
must work together
make sure that all the key parts of
system remain effective as well as responsive to the
that
needs of the territory.
(b) The civil service
88.
The civil service too will face adjustments as a
result of next year's changes in the political system. But
the need to maintain close links between this Council and
the
administration
greater.
will remain. It will, if anything, be
At the same time, we must draw а clear
distinction between
politicians and civil servants. As our
political institutions
civil
service should
evolve, it is important that the
remain politically neutral.
The
service exists to serve the overall interests of Hong Kong.
It must not be identified with sectoral interests.
89.
civil
enter
I have already made the point that the size of our
service will remain virtually static next year. As we
a period of minimal growth in numbers, we need to look
/at