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Following is the speech (translation) by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, introducing the Government Minute in response to the Nineteenth Annual Report of the Ombudsman in the Legislative Council today (November 28):
Madam President,
The Nineteenth Annual Report of The Ombudsman was tabled in this Council on July 4, 2007. I now present the Government Minute which sets out the Administration's response to the recommendations made in the Annual Report.
Government bureaux, departments and public bodies concerned have generally accepted all recommendations made by The Ombudsman for the investigation cases in the Annual Report. They are now taking positive steps to implement the recommendations.
The Ombudsman is widely recognised by the community as a credible guardian of quality public service. The acceptance of The Ombudsman's recommendations conveys the Administration's support for The Ombudsman's work and its readiness to accept her constructive advice.
The Government will continue to partner with The Ombudsman in the pursuit of our common goal to enhance the quality of public service and transparency in governance.
Thank you, Madam President.
Ends/Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Issued at HKT 13:00
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