Hong Kong sets up policy unit for Chief Executive

EDMOND TANG CHINA DAILY The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government is looking for competent professionals for a planned policy unit for the chief executive, with a long list of potential candidates already in hand.

In an interview with local media, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiuLee Ka-chiu said he had high expectations that the policy unit would play up to its strengths, and to achieve that, qualified talent would be its core.

Lee had announced earlier in the day that he plans to establish a policy unit to provide professional advice in the policymaking process, while overseeing the overall interests of Hong Kong, focusing on the development of the nation and examining the international situation.

Lee said his team has done a great job since assuming office, and that it will do even better with concerted efforts and teamwork synergy.

After restoring order in the city, Lee stressed his confidence in his governing team, saying that Hong Kong needs to make up for lost time and opportunities.

ALSO READ: CE seeks views on policy address during Sham Shui Po visit.

Lee said President Xi Jinping's speech in Hong Kong on July 1 played a very important role in improving the governance system.

Within a week after taking office on July 1, Lee s administration established four task groups to address issues on housing, land supply, intergenerational poverty and district affairs. Lee said the groups were set up with a view to improve the SAR's governance system.

He said that the government has invited a group of experienced and objective people whose responsibility is to review, evaluate and criticize the government plan when dealing with major issues in a bid to plug the loopholes before.

Lee described the approach as scenario planning, which he believes can systematically test and optimize the plan.

Lee said it was up to the department and bureau heads to decide whether a regular red team should be set up or if it will be subject to changes.

READ MORE: Lee: Arts, Technology is high on our agenda.

Lee said that it is important to have a culture and enhancing the sense of crisis in government officers to better prepare for unexpected situations.