John Lee Supports Government Restructuring

The sole candidate running for the forthcoming Chief Executive election, John Lee, on Saturday said he is “inclined” to back proposals by the current administration to restructure the government.

Restructuring plans proposed by Chief Executive Carrie Lam include setting up a new culture, sports and tourism bureau, splitting the Transport and Housing Bureau into two, and turning the Home Affairs Bureau into a department for youth and district affairs. Lam has said the restructuring proposals are aimed at creating complementary policy focuses and meeting social expectations.

Speaking to reporters, Lee said lawmakers had discussed the plans and that he largely supported them, adding that he had also been involved in related discussions in the past. He said he would push ahead with legislation on restructuring if he is elected.

Speaking on National Security Education Day, the CE hopeful said Hong Kong had experienced disheartening events in the past in which its national security was put under threat.

He said such events made people realise that both individuals and society suffer when national security comes under attack, adding that it is therefore important for people to better understand national security and for authorities to manage security risks.

Lee added that he supports the current government’s plans to enact laws to regulate crowdfunding, adding that current laws are insufficient to stop illegal acts through crowdfunding. He said he would consider making the issue part of his election platform.