from public funds. A Public Accounts Committee considers the annual report of the Director of Audit and reports to
the Governor.
6. By taking part in the process of government, the Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils play a significant role in the administration of Hong Kong. They advise on the formulation of government policies, participate in the enactment of legislation, consider complaints by members of the public against government departments and monitor the effectiveness of public administration. The 20 appointed Unofficial members are selected by the Governor from a wide
spectrum of society and they hold many seats, outside the
two councils, on various committees and boards dealing with
public and community affairs. The 26 elected members comprise 12 who are elected by an Electoral College composed of members of the Urban Council (URBCO), the Regional Council (REGCO) and Hong Kong's 19 District Boards; and 14 who are elected by functional constituencies representing
legal, commercial, industrial, social services, medical,
teaching, labour, financial and professional groups.
7. The Office of Members of the Executive and Legislative
Councils (OMELCO), funded by the Hong Kong Government, provides research and administrative assistance to
Unofficial members. OMELCO is also an established channel
for the redress of grievances, and it handles all public
complaints, appeals and cases of maladministration. Under the OMELCO redress system, members have the right of access
to government records and senior officials and to challenge the established practices and policies of government departments. When necessary they bring important issues to the attention of either of the two councils. They may also
refer cases for investigation by the Commissioner for Administrative Complaints.
8. Unofficial Members spend much time studying all
Government bills and any course of government action which
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