The seventh-term Legislative Council (LegCo) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the first formed since the implementation of the improved electoral system and the principle of "patriots administering HK," has made significant strides in legislative efficiency. To improve the effectiveness of deliberations, 27 Bills Committees were established, resolving multiple long-standing and complex issues. The LegCo's House Committee held its year-end press conference on Oct. 20 to report on its work. During the session, it conducted 31 meetings, deliberating 31 government bills and two members' bills. Over the four-year term, a total of 130 bills were passed—49 more than the previous term during the same period—representing a 60% increase. Moreover, nearly 50% of lawmakers' suggestions were adopted and incorporated into government amendments, a record-high rate that reflects robust collaboration between lawmakers' professional input and the government's openness to feedback.
Strengthened executive-legislative interaction: A cornerstone of effective governance
The beneficial interaction between the executive and legislative branches serves as a cornerstone for achieving good governance in HK. Reflecting on the past four years, Ms. Starry Lee Wai-king, Chairlady of the House Committee, highlighted how the legislative and executive bodies have worked toward enhanced governance through mutual cooperation and checks and balances, while steadfastly adhering to the principle of "one country, two systems." At this pivotal juncture of advancing "from stability to prosperity," HK necessitates reform and innovation. Through innovative platforms such as the "Chief Executive's Interactive Exchange Question and Answer Session" and the "Ante Chamber Exchange Sessions," the current-term SAR government and LegCo have established a comprehensive, multi-tiered communication and collaboration mechanism, yielding notable achievements in efficient deliberation, policy implementation, and community services.
Mr. Chan Kin-por, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee, reported that the Committee held 31 meetings during the session, scrutinizing 31 government bills and 2 members' bills. With the exception of the "Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill" being vetoed, the remaining 30 government bills and one member's bill were passed. Including carry-over bills from the previous session, a total of 41 government bills were passed this session, demonstrating remarkable productivity. To enhance efficiency, 27 Bills Committees were established, successfully advancing multiple key bills pertaining to people's livelihoods and the economy.
In addition, with the refinement of the local governance mechanisms, the LegCo recently engaged in exchange sessions with all 10 District Councils to discuss community development and address public concerns. This initiative facilitates the integration of the LegCo's macro-level policy oversight with the District Councils' grassroots governance practices, enabling joint policy recommendations to the government. This initiative has facilitated closer integration of LegCo's macro-level policy insights with District Councils' grassroots governance practices, enabling collaborative recommendations to the government. By aligning public services with citizens' needs, this approach has effectively enhanced residents' sense of fulfillment and well-being.
Strengthening self-regulation: A milestone code of conduct for LegCo Members
In a groundbreaking move to reinforce self-discipline, the seventh-term LegCo has proactively proposed and passed the "Code for Members of the Legislative Council." This code, for the first time, systematically regulates members' performance standards, behavioral expectations, and disciplinary mechanisms.
The code was passed with unanimous support on July 24 this year and will take effect on the first day of the new LegCo term. It not only consolidates and refines existing norms but also explicitly requires lawmakers to prioritize the fundamental interests of the nation and the overall welfare of HK society in their actions. It also enhances the interest declaration mechanism and stipulates a disciplinary framework corresponding to the severity of any misconduct. Furthermore, LegCo pledged to release its annual work report within two months after the fiscal year's conclusion, significantly improving operational transparency and enabling public oversight.
Mr. Andrew Leung, President of the LegCo, emphasized that the new accountability system provides a comprehensive framework for integrating and optimizing various regulations. It sets clear standards for members' conduct and performance, ensuring that incoming lawmakers have clear guidelines to follow as they assume their duties. This framework not only enhances LegCo's transparency and efficiency but also enables the public to better understand and monitor its operations. As representatives of public opinion, lawmakers must adhere to the principle of "striving for betterment, not just adequacy." Members unanimously expressed their hope that the eighth LegCo, operating under this new accountability system, will achieve smoother and more efficient operations, allowing lawmakers to better serve HK's citizens.
Laying a foundation for long-term development and good governance
Looking ahead, Starry Lee expressed her expectation that under the leadership of the Chief Executive, the executive authorities and the eighth-term LegCo will maintain close communication, enhance synergy, and better serve the people of HK. As participants in the formulation of policies within the system, as well as their implementers and supervisors, lawmakers are committed to actively contributing to HK's prosperity and stability. They will shoulder the responsibility of promoting the better development of HK society and more actively integrating it into the national development landscape, jointly narrating the stories of both HK and the country. By ensuring that "the government responds to the people's calls," the LegCo will continue to play an active role in advancing good governance.
At the same time, institutional development has no endpoint, and fostering a culture of parliamentary integrity requires continuous effort across generations. The recent revisions not only establish a robust framework for the current Council but also lay a solid foundation for the long-term development of HK's legislative system. Through persistent self-regulation and transparent accountability, the LegCo remains committed to upholding good governance for generations to come.
(Source: Ta Kung Pao; English Intern Editor: Yuki; English Editor: Zoey SUN)
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