17-
We also monitor closely the work of consultants. We provide high quality briefs to steer the consultants' work and have established clear and effective procedures to monitor all aspects of the progress and management of a consultancy. The Chairman has made reference to PAC Members' concerns that they often see cases where the relevant departments were ill prepared to select, brief and monitor the progress of consultants. I accept that there may be room for improvement in this respect, but we must maintain a proper perspective of the problem. Policy Secretaries and the Works Directors would be very happy to follow-up cases where Members feel improvements are called for.
Mr President, the Government is committed to working closely with the Audit Department and the Public Accounts Committee in our quest for the more efficient use of public funds. I am confident that the measures we have taken, or are planning to take, will go a long way towards this end.
End
Speech by SHW in motion debate on elderly policy
Following is a speech by the Secretary for Health and Welfare, Mrs Katherine Fok, in the motion debate on elderly policy in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Mr President,
This is a timely debate and I welcome the many constructive views made by Members today. Based on current levels of life expectancy, we can all expect to live to a ripe old age. We are all, therefore, understandably interested in ensuring that the policies are in place to provide a dignified and fulfilling life in our twilight years. We are happiest and most satisfied when we are at home surrounded by our family, our friends and a familiar environment. Our fundamental policy goal is to provide the opportunity for as many people as possible to grow old in such circumstances. We give the highest priority to implementing concrete plans to achieve this policy. Because people's outlook and expectations are constantly changing, we must also constantly keep our plans under review. I could not agree more, therefore, with the Hon Chan Yuen-han that our planning must be both pro-active and forward looking.
Page 30Page 31