The Chamber strongly believes that the new system - with a corps of very capable and experienced individuals assuming the new key positions - would enhance transparency and clarify lines of responsibility, and enable the machinery of Government to operate more smoothly and effectively. The very able Hong Kong civil service will now be able to concentrate on what it does best - execution, whereas the new appointees can now help the Chief Executive set broader policy directions.

This new system should also increase Hong Kong people's confidence in the government and make the government more responsive and accountable. In addition, the new accountability system should give the Chief Executive a greater ability to ensure his programmes for the future growth and development of the SAR are carried through to their ultimate conclusion.

In particular, the Chamber is heartened that its former Chairman, James Tien - who is also the Chamber's Legco Rep - and General Committee member Henry Tang are among those named, with Mr. Tien joining the new Executive Council and Mr. Tang heading the Commerce, Industry and Technology Bureau. Both are very familiar with the political demands of the job and have the experience and knowledge to provide good advice to the Chief Executive. Mr. Tien's dedication to Hong Kong and his accomplishments are well-known. In the case of Mr. Tang, his new position is especially crucial to the business community, and the Chamber feels that he could do an excellent job managing that portfolio, including seeing that the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement consultations come to a fruitful conclusion at an early date. Mr. Tang comes highly regarded both in traditional industries and in the technology sector, and can recommend policies which will make Hong Kong more competitive.