‘Evidence-based’: Legco to require research from lawmakers raising non-binding motions

Hong Kong’s legislature will require lawmakers to submit relevant research findings and recommendations when they raise motions that have no legislative effect, a move its president has said is aimed at helping the public follow debates more easily and fostering “evidence-based” discussion.

“This will allow the government and the public to better understand the intent and rationale of the motions, and also help the public better follow the debates in the chamber,” Starry Lee Wai-king said.

“I hope the government, the chief executive and all officials will take on board more views from lawmakers and step up exchanges. I hope [the requirement] will make our discussions on public policy more evidence-based.”

Lee announced the decision at the Legislative Council’s lunch with Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. Senior government officials and members of the Executive Council, the city’s top decision-making body, also attended.

She said the requirement would take effect next year, calling it a sign of lawmakers’ commitment to continuous self-improvement.

In addition to bills, lawmakers can move motions to express views on issues of public concern or to urge the government to act. Such motions carry no legislative effect.

Motion debates have previously been criticised as vague and repetitive, prompting questions about their value and calls to scrap them.

Lee also summed up the legislature’s work over the past year, during which it approved around HK$130 billion of funding. About HK$37 billion of that, almost 30 per cent, was earmarked for the Northern Metropolis, a megaproject to turn some 30,000 hectares (74,132 acres) of land into a technology hub and economic engine.

Last month, the government released an independent committee’s report into the deadly Tai Po blaze last November and unveiled a raft of reforms.

Lee pledged that the legislature would scrutinise the administration’s proposals carefully and push for swift implementation.

“Legco will continue to support, cooperate with, facilitate and oversee the government,” she said. “We will rigorously scrutinise bills and offer constructive suggestions so that systemic reforms are implemented as soon as possible, meeting public expectations.”