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were unwilling to move the instruments, it is just that the results were not satisfactory. These are two different matters and the logic that because Workmen II were unwilling to take up the task, we asked the musicians to do it does not apply. At any rate, we hope the Department would conduct a review on how we can have a better arrangement for the benefits of the Chinese Orchestra.
9.
MR. LEE KWOK-KEUNG asked the following question (in Cantonese):—Apart from discharging general secretarial duties, in respect of the function of the Urban Council in monitoring the work of the Urban Services Department, Urban Council Secretariat also provides administrative supporting services to the Urban Council. However, organisationally the Secretariat reports direct to the Department, thereby creating conflict of roles and ambiguity of duties and responsibilities. In this regard, I have the following questions:
(a) What services are provided by the Urban Council Secretariat? Do the services include examination of departmental policies and information research?
(b) What is the normal term of office for Secretary, Urban Council? If the Secretary is often transferred, will this affect the operation of the Urban Council Secretariat?
(c) What is the annual expenditure of the Urban Council Secretariat? (d) At present, does the Director of Urban Services countersign the report of
Secretary, Urban Council? If yes, will this affect the independence of the Urban Council Secretariat?
Mr. Suen Kai-cheong, Chairman OF THE Administration Select Committee, replied as follows (in Cantonese):—Mr. Lee Kwok-keung has raised a number of questions concerning the operation and organisation structure of the U.C. Secretariat.
The primary duties and responsibilities of the U.C. Secretariat are to provide general administrative, secretarial and support services to ensure that all Council meetings are conducted as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Such services include, among others, the preparation of agendas, the issuance of discussion papers, the drafting of minutes, etc. They do not, however, include examination of departmental policies and research duties.
I understand that it is normal Government practice for General Grade officers to be transferred to different posts in different departments after having served in a particular post for a period of about 2 to 3 years, or more, depending on individual circumstances. The same practice also applies to the Secretary of the Urban Council who is expected to stay in the present post for more or less the same period. This has been done in the past and there has been no evidence to indicate that the transfer of staff to and from the U.C. Secretariat, including the Secretary of the Urban Council, has adversely affected the work and operation of the Urban Council Secretariat or the work of the Council.
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