Resolution to effect the transfer of bureau functions

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The following is a speech by the Acting Secretary for Broadcasting, Culture and Sport, Mrs Rita Lau, in moving a resolution under Section 54A of the Interpretation and General Clauses Ordinance at the Provisional Legislative Council today (Tuesday):

Madam President,

I move that the resolution as set out in the paper circulated to Members be made.

The Government has announced earlier that the Broadcasting, Culture and Sport Bureau (BCSB) will be re-organised as the Information Technology and Broadcasting Bureau (ITBB). While retaining the broadcasting portfolio, the ITBB will assume policy responsibility for the co-ordination and development of Information Technology (IT) applications and telecommunications in the public and private sectors.

Under the re-organisation plan, the Secretary for Information Technology and Broadcasting (SITB), while retaining the policy on broadcasting and related matters, will be responsible for formulating policies and overseeing the development of IT throughout Government and promoting the wider use of IT in the community to maintain Hong Kong's position as a leading business and financial centre. The Secretary for Information Technology and Broadcasting will take over from the Secretary for Economic Services and Secretary for Treasury respectively the responsibility for telecommunications policies and the co-ordination of IT applications in Government bureaux and departments. The policy responsibility for arts, culture, sports, physical recreation and entertainment licensing will be transferred from BCSB to the Secretary for Home Affairs.

To implement the organisational changes and to effect the changes in the exercise of statutory functions and responsibilities, amendments to all relevant Ordinances and subsidiary legislation are required. Under section 54A(1) of the Interpretation and General Clauses Ordinance (Cap. 1), the Provisional Legislative Council may, by regulation, provide for the transfer to any public officer of any functions exercised by virtue of any Ordinance by another public officer. The proposed Resolution aims to effect the transfer of functions exercisable by the concerned Bureau Secretaries and amend references to titles in certain enactments affected by the transfer with effect from 9 April 1998.

I beg to move the motion.

END/Tuesday, April 7, 1998

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