municipal councils or the
Legislative The occupational or professional organisations listed under the functional constituencies in the Legislative Council (Electoral Provisions) Ordinance (Chapter 381) are not, however, intended to be covered by this definition.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
6
There has been no consultation to date with staff, but an advance copy of the circular memorandum announcing the prohibition will be given to the Staff Side of the Senior
Civil Service Council.
STAFF REACTION
7
The prohibition is expected to be acceptable to Directorate Officers and Administrative Officers. The more junior members of the Information Officer Grade may, however, resent their being subject to the prohibition.
PUBLIC REACTION
8
The
fact that
the Government is considering prohibiting certain categories of civil servants from joining political organisations has been widely reported in the media in the last two months. Reaction to date has been relatively mild, with the emphasis on striking a fair balance between the rights of those involved and the need of the community for an impartial administration. Public reaction, if any, to the proposed prohibition is likely to be mixed, media-led and dependent to a degree on civil service reaction.
PUBLICITY
9
A press release will be issued. In addition all Branches and Departments will be informed by circular.
1 February 1990
(DP 61/1/2-C (89) III)
COUNCIL CHAMBER