Legislature confirms sub-committee assignments for new term

The Legislative Assembly (AL) has announced the lineup of its sub-committees for the new legislative term, keeping the same structure and number as previous sessions.

The resolutions, published yesterday and set for a vote next week, confirm that three standing committees will continue to review government-submitted draft legislation over the next four years.

Three follow-up committees will handle discussions with government officials on land and public concessions, public finance, and public administration.

The first standing committee and the follow-up committee on land and public concessions will share the same 10 members, including Wong Kit Cheng, Lei Leong Wong, Jose Chui Sai Peng, Lam Fat Iam, and Joey Lao Chi Ngai.

Another set of 10 lawmakers, such as Ip Sio Kai, Lam Lon Wai, and Ngan Iek Hang, will serve on the second standing committee and the follow-up committee on public finance.

The third standing committee and follow-up committee on public administration will include 11 members, among them Angela Leong, Jose Pereira Coutinho, and Ma Chi Seng.

A separate seven-member committee will oversee internal rules and mandates. All lawmakers participate in sub-committees except for AL president André Cheong and vice president Ho Ion Sang.

Cheong, appointed a lawmaker in late September and elected president on October 16, is the first former government official to hold the position since the SAR was established in 1999.

Meanwhile, Cheong’s departure from the Secretary for Administration and Justice role prompted a reassignment of 12 staff members.

Five joined the AL’s support offices, while the others were transferred to various government departments, including the Public Works Bureau and Municipal Affairs Bureau.

Cheong’s former position was filled by Wong Sio Chak, formerly Secretary for Security, with accompanying staff adjustments.

The legislature is expected to formally approve the sub-committee assignments and elect committee chairs and secretaries at its next plenary session on Oct. 28. Times Reporter