The performance of the new Legislative Council continues to draw scrutiny. The recent call from Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang for Legco to deliver more “
practical outcomes” that align with the city’s actual conditions and Beijing’s expectations under the executive-led system has prompted more soul-searching on ways to enhance governance. The aspiration for better results under the new approach is evident.
It has been suggested that Legco borrow tools from the mainland. Drawing inspiration from the
law enforcement inspection system of the National People’s Congress, Legco president Starry Lee Wai-king floated the idea of a mechanism to review the implementation of approved bills and funding.
Exactly how this would work within the executive-led system remains to be seen. But the idea of strengthening the monitoring of public spending and law enforcement is worth exploring. As a veteran lawmaker and the sole Hongkonger on the NPC Standing Committee, Lee believes Legco can take a leaf out of the state legislature’s book.
Legco currently has numerous committees and panels to perform its duties. It is also up to individual lawmakers to follow up on issues of public concern via questions and motion debates. The mainland system empowers the highest state organ to initiate comprehensive reviews of the implementation of laws, policies and more.
The need for stronger oversight was highlighted by the
bus seat belt debacle in January. The Hong Kong government was forced to repeal the new law mandating bus passengers to buckle up within days of it coming into force following an embarrassing revelation that the ordinance endorsed by the revamped Legco last year effectively excluded all buses registered before January 25. The confusion undermined confidence in the administration and the legislature.
Concerns are growing that the subdivided flats regulation may become another setback after the new law requiring minimum living standards
got off to a slow start. So far, only one landlord has sought certification approval while applications for a grace period have been submitted for more than 1,100 homes. The authorities have estimated that over 30,000 of the existing 110,000 units would not meet the minimum statutory standards. Greater efforts are needed to speed up progress. We trust authorities will work harder.
