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The final post-Policy Address district forum to gauge public views on the 2008-09 Policy Address was held today (October 30).
The district forums, which were organised by the 18 District Offices of the Home Affairs Department (HAD), were chaired by the Under Secretaries who were able to listen to the views of the local community on the Policy Address. About 2,000 people attended these forums.
An HAD spokesman said: "It is the first time for the Under Secretaries to chair the forums, which provide an invaluable opportunity for them to reach out to the community and to listen to public views by themselves. The forums will also help strengthen communication among the policy bureaux and the districts.
"We are grateful to all moderators, panellists and members of the public who have actively participated and expressed their views on different policy areas. Their active discussions on the Policy Address reflect that Hong Kong people are enthusiastic about social affairs.
"Communication between the Government and members of the public is vital for further improving governance. All of the views expressed in the forums will be gathered by the Home Affairs Department and submitted to the Chief Executive's Office."
Ends/Thursday, October 30, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:41
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