X. Administration and Constitutional System

District Administration

190.         District administration has been implemented in Hong Kong for more than three decades. It has produced positive results, but also leaves much room for further development. I put forward the concept of "addressing district issues at the local level and capitalising on local opportunities". This means that district administration, initiated by the Government, should be complemented by active district participation. It should not be the sole responsibility of the Government. The way forward is to delegate certain work and responsibilities to the District Councils (DCs) so that they can assist in delivering district services and promoting district development.

191.         We will actively study how to take forward the present mode of district administration to enhance the functions of DCs, enable DC Members to play a more active role in district affairs, and facilitate the co-ordination of government departments in service delivery at district level by the District Officers. We will amend the legislation as soon as possible to abolish all DC appointed seats from 2016 onwards. Meanwhile, I hope that local communities could manage local affairs with the overall interests of the community in mind. We will organise a summit to explore ways to improve district administration.

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