Political Ethics

183.     All politicians, whether members of the executive authorities or the legislature, should act in the overall public interest, even if they do not share the same view.  In fact, our experience over the past few years shows that to promote social development, an accommodating political culture is essential.  If political groups refuse to make the slightest compromise or even resort to fierce confrontational tactics, social progress will be stifled.

Political Appointment System

184.     The Government introduced the Political Appointment System to enhance the accountability of Principal Officials for their respective policy portfolios, maintain a permanent and politically neutral civil service, and bring in suitable people to take up Principal Official positions to serve the community.  Political appointments are common in democracies.  In Hong Kong, however, the system has been in place for just under a decade.  This is a new system, which brings about new challenges as well.  Our Political Appointment System is evolving.  We will continue to listen carefully to views both inside and outside the Government.  We will also draw on our experience to fine-tune and perfect this system and ensure that it progresses with the times.  This will help us prepare for universal suffrage.

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