CONSTITUTION AND ADMINISTRATION
departments to promote a co-ordinated and systematic approach to Human Resource Development (HRD). To promote best HRD practices, the Award for Best Practices in HRD was introduced in 1998. The theme for the Award was Induction Training.
Government Records Service
The Government Records Service manages government records. It undertakes two different but related programmes. The Records Management Office is responsible for a records management programme which handles current and inactive records. The Public Records Office runs an archives administration programme which looks after the preservation and use of permanent records.
Proper management of records enhances the efficiency of business in government. The Records Management Office develops and oversees the implementation of a comprehensive system to manage records effectively and efficiently. Since November 1994, a Records Management Strategy has been implemented in phases to help government departments improve the quality of records services, reduce records stock, control the growth of records and enhance cost-effectiveness in records management. Phase II of the strategy was completed in 1998, bringing about considerable improvements to the records management systems in the civil service through a series of consultancy studies, the introduction of centralised microfilming services, and staff training. The third and final phase, which aims to further consolidate these improvements on a service-wide scale, was then launched. Good progress was made during the year in developing further guidelines on management and disposal of various types of records, and the introduction of a new curriculum for the training of government staff in records management.
The Public Records Office is one of the largest local sources of information for historical and other studies relating to Hong Kong. The public archives also helps to foster the identity of the Hong Kong community through the safe keeping of permanent records on the territory's history and development.
The bulk of the archival stock is held at the Public Records Building in Kwun Tong, Kowloon. The building is the territory's first purpose-built archival facility, and has been designed to the latest international standards required for the preservation of various types of records. Since September 1997, an automated system has been installed in the building to enhance services to the public in searching, identifying and accessing records held by the Public Records Office.
Good progress was made during 1998 in taking forward a Public Education and Publicity Programme, which aims to promote a wider public interest in the local historical heritage. A photographic exhibition on historical Hong Kong and Shanghai was held in July, attracting more than 5 000 visitors. Other programmes consisting of seminars and visits during the period were also well attended.
Language
Hong Kong's official languages are Chinese and English. Reports and publications of public interest issued by the government are available in both languages. Simultaneous interpretation is provided at official meetings where necessary and appropriate. Correspondence from the public in Chinese is replied to in Chinese.
The government continues to step up efforts to promote wider use of Chinese in the civil service. The aim is to develop a civil service which communicates effectively in
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