Among other measures for ensuring openness, transparency and accountability, the Government uses the Internet to disseminate information on its policies, services and activities and to communicate with the public. All bureaux and departments produce their home pages in Chinese and English. Thematic home pages are also produced for special events and topics.

    These home pages can be accessed through the Government Information Centre (GIC) at http://www.gov.hk. Hyperlinks to the home pages of the Chief Executive, Executive Council, Legislative Council, the 18 District Councils, the Judiciary and other related organisations are provided.

    The GIC provides 24-hour news updates, live broadcasts of government press conferences, consultation papers and topical information to enable the public to keep track of local developments and important announcements. It is also a portal to a wide range of electronics services of various departments and agencies, including the submission of tax returns, registration as a voter, payment of government fees and the purchase of government publications.

    The Government's e-bulletin, http://www.news.gov.hk, launched on December 30, is a new initiative to enhance E-government excellence. Given the ever-growing Internet population, both local and abroad, the e-bulletin is an effective means to present to the public a comprehensive spread of government news, views and information. Being a website with interactive and multimedia features, it has become a valuable tool in enhancing the transparency of the Government.