ENG-2004 — Page 457

Communications, the Media and Information Technology | 395

booking service for the Hong Kong Smart Identity Card replacement exercise, payment of government fees and the purchase of government publications.

The Government's e-bulletin (www.news.gov.hk) is another effective means of presenting to the public a comprehensive spread of government news, views and information. Being a website with interactive and multimedia features, it has become a valuable tool in enhancing the transparency of the Government.

Code on Access to Information

The authorities believe in an open and accountable government. This requires reasonable access to government information. An administrative Code on Access to Information now applies to all bureaux and departments, which are committed to making information available to the public.

The code sets out the types of government information to which the public has access. It also lists categories of exemptions to ensure appropriate confidentiality of sensitive information held by the Government, and information involving personal privacy and commercial sensitivity.

The public may complain to The Ombudsman about government departments that fail to respond to requests for information in accordance with the code. It establishes a set of rules in meeting public expectations of greater transparency from the Government.

Protection of Privacy with Respect to Personal Data

The Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance is designed to protect the privacy of individuals in relation to personal data. The ordinance provides for the appointment of a Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data to monitor, supervise and promote compliance with the ordinance.

Information Technology

'Digital 21' IT Strategy

The Government is committed to keeping Hong Kong at the forefront of information technology (IT) development. The Digital 21 Strategy, first issued in 1998 and revised in 2001, is the blueprint for IT development in Hong Kong. Since the launch of the strategy, great strides have been made in putting in place the right environment, infrastructure, skills and culture to encourage the development and adoption of IT by the whole community.

After reviewing implementation of the 2001 Strategy and taking into account. views received from a public consultation, the Government published an updated Digital 21 Strategy in March 2004. The aim of the 2004 strategy is to sustain the momentum created since the strategy was launched, continue to harness the benefits of IT for businesses and the community, and strengthen Hong Kong's position as a leading digital city in the world.