Code
on Access to Information
The
Government exists to serve the community well within available
resources. To this end, it recognises the need for the
community to be well informed about the Government, the
services it provides and the basis for policies and decisions
that affect individuals and the community as a whole.
The
Code on Access to Information (the Code) defines the scope
of information that will be provided, sets out how the
information will be made available either routinely or
in response to a request, and lays down procedures governing
its prompt release.
The
Code authorises and requires civil servants, routinely
or on request, to provide information unless there are
specific reasons for not doing so. These reasons are set
out in Part 2 and will normally be referred to if a request
for information is refused.
Requests
for information will be handled as promptly and helpfully
as possible and if necessary, members of the public may
be approached to clarify their requests or the requests
may be directed to the most appropriate department. Procedures
will be kept as simple as possible.
The
Code also sets out procedures for review or complaint
if a member of the public considers that the provisions
of the Code have not been properly applied.
The
Code can be accessed at http://www.access.gov.hk.
Procedures
and Charges