The network of advisory and statutory bodies is a distinctive feature of the system of government. It seeks to tap professional expertise in the community and to encourage public participation in the Government's decision-making processes.

Advisory bodies give advice to the Government through senior government officials such as Principal Officials, Permanent Secretaries of Bureaux or Department heads. A few advisory bodies tender their advice directly to the Chief Executive. The areas of activities of advisory boards are wide-ranging. Some, such as the Telecommunications Standards Advisory Committee, deal with the interests of a particular industry. Others advise on a particular area of government policy, such as the Transport Advisory Committee, while the District Councils deal with district affairs. Statutory bodies, such as the Hospital Authority, are charged with legal powers and responsibilities to perform specific functions in accordance with the relevant legislations.

Over 4 000 members of the public are serving on about 400 advisory and statutory bodies. They include persons who are representatives of the relevant professions or the community; and appointees by the Government in view of their expertise, knowledge or experience, and contribution to the work of the bodies concerned.

The Government oversees the operation of the advisory and statutory bodies to ensure that they operate efficiently and meet the needs of the community. A reasonable turnover of appointed membership is maintained to ensure continual injection of new and divergent ideas. The Government will continue to broaden community participation in advisory and statutory bodes as well as to enhance the transparency of their operations.