Policy Address

Strengthen the Civil Service Management System

43. A capable and efficient civil service is the key to good-quality government services. In September, when Hong Kong was hit by Super Typhoon Saola, followed by torrential rain, all government departments, including the non-emergency departments, came together and assisted in bringing the community back to normal soon after. I am grateful to all of them for their dedication and hard work.

44. The Government will continue to strengthen our management system, as follows:

  1. advance the performance-based management system – The streamlined mechanism for management-initiated retirement of officers with persistent sub-standard performance became effective in September. Regarding the disciplinary mechanism, we will enhance training for departments on investigating and handling disciplinary cases. Meanwhile, we will give due recognition to civil servants with outstanding performances and dedication to the community. Aside from the Chief Executive's Award for Exemplary Performance Scheme, the Government will publicise the civil servants' good work and dedication to serve. This will help boost staff morale and performance, while attracting talented people to join the Government;

  2. update the Civil Service Code – In accordance with the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong", civil servants must be well aware of the need to safeguard sovereignty, national security and development interests. They should be dedicated to their duties, care about the public, embrace collaboration and teamwork, and be committed and responsible. The Civil Service Bureau (CSB) submitted the first draft of the updated Civil Service Code last year. And at my request, it is reviewing the draft taking into account more comprehensive information. The CSB aims to issue the updated Code in the first quarter of next year or earlier for consultation with staff; and

  3. introduce the Civil Service Staff Exchange Programme with the GBA – The HKSAR Government will introduce an exchange programme with civil servants from other GBA cities by the end of the year to dovetail with the development of the GBA.