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Constitution and Administration

In addition, the unit provides secretariat support to the Commission on Strategic Development, which advises the Chief Executive on Hong Kong's long-term development needs and goals with particular reference to the direction and strategy of social, economic and political developments for Hong Kong. The Chief Executive chairs the commission. During its recent term from 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2012, there were 69 non-official members drawn from many fields, including academia, the business sector, the professions, the media, think-tanks, the welfare sector and political parties. The commission also included four official members: the Chief Secretary for Administration, the Financial Secretary, the Director of the Chief Executive's Office and the Head of the Central Policy Unit.

Efficiency Unit

The Efficiency Unit reports to the Chief Secretary for Administration, supporting the Government's commitment to improving services to the community and ensuring openness and accountability. The unit provides internal management consultancy services for the public sector to identify, secure support for, and implement public sector reforms.

The unit operates the 1823 Call Centre, which provides a round-the-clock one-stop service to answer enquiries for 21 departments and receive complaints about any area of government services. In 2012, the unit continued to develop web services on the 1823 Online and extended its presence in popular social media platforms. The aim was to present public information in a more easily accessible and understandable format and make it easier for citizens to submit information or pictures so that departments can identify and act on issues of public concern more quickly. The unit also operates a 'Youth Portal' (www.youth.gov.hk) which provides a one- stop multi-media platform for young people to access government information and services. The portal was revamped in 2012 to connect young people with content and services through the latest technology and media channels.

Advisory and Statutory Bodies

About 5,100 members of the public serve on the roughly 460 advisory and statutory bodies which are a distinctive feature of the system of government. These bodies tap professional expertise in the community and enables public participation in government decision-making. Through these bodies, a wide cross-section of the community and relevant organisations can participate in the initial stage of policy-making and public service planning. The Government maintains a regular turnover of members to ensure wide participation and the inclusion of fresh perspectives.

The advisory bodies' areas of activities are wide-ranging. Some, such as the Advisory Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries, deal with the interests of a particular industry. Others, such as the Transport Advisory Committee, advise on a particular area of government policy. Statutory bodies, such as the Hospital Authority, have legal powers and responsibilities to perform specific functions in accordance with the relevant legislation.

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