TNAG-1230-FCO40-1543-Visit-by-Richard-Luce--Minister-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Com-1983 — Page 80

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MR LUCE'S VISIT TO HONG KONG : 24 TO 28 SEPTEMBER 1983

BRIEF NO 12 : MEETING WITH UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE AND

LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS (UMELCO)

Role of UMELCO

1. UMELCO consists of Unofficial Members of Executive Council

(EXCO) and the Legislative Council (LEGCO). An institution unique

to Hong Kong, it has functions as an organisation that go far beyond

the role of individual Unofficials as members of EXCO and LEGCO.

2. By taking part in process of government, Unofficial Members of both Councils play a significant role in administration of Hong

Kong. They advise on formulation of government policies,

participate in enactment of legislation, consider complaints by members of public against government departments and monitor effectiveness of public administration. Unofficial members are

selected by Governor from wide spectrum of society and outside the

two councils hold more than 300 seats on various committees and

boards dealing with public and community affairs.

3. UMELCO Office, funded by the Government, provides research and administrative assistance to Unofficial Members. The UMELCO Office

is also established channel for the redress of grievances, and handles all public complaints, appeals and representations addressed

to Unofficial Members alleging official maladministration. Under

UMELCO redress system, members have right of access to government

records and senior officials and to challenge established practices

and policies of government departments. When necessary they bring important issues to attention of either of the two councils.

4.

Unofficial Members spend much time studying all Government Bills and any course of government action which is important or controversial or about which representations are received from public bodies or from members of the public. UMELCO Police Group, which consists of seven Unofficial Members and Attorney General,

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