Latest news with #AndrewLeung
RTHK
18 hours ago
- Politics
- RTHK
New code of conduct can lead to lawmakers' suspension
New code of conduct can lead to lawmakers' suspension Andrew Leung says lawmakers in the next Legco term could face the new code of conduct. Photo: RTHK The Legislative Council has drafted a new code of conduct for its next term to enhance members' self-discipline and oversight, which will include a formal sanctions mechanism with penalties ranging from warnings to suspension of duties for misconduct. Legco president Andrew Leung said on Thursday that the code outlines expectations for members' conduct and work while emphasising that lawmakers must consistently uphold high standards of personal behaviour, maintain integrity and act in alignment with the fundamental interests of the nation and the broader interests of Hong Kong society. To boost transparency, Leung stated that members will be required to submit an annual work report for public review within two months after the end of each year. He added that the code establishes a tiered sanctions system based on the severity of misconduct, which may include written warnings and suspension of duties. For more serious offences, Leung added, a motion would be moved that would result in a member being censured or, worse, suspended for a certain period if a majority of lawmakers vote for it. "With the suspension, he will not be able to receive any salary or remuneration, etc. That's the way the committee will look at it," he said, referring to the Committee on Members' Interests. To enforce the code, the existing committee will be expanded, he added. The committee will handle formal misconduct complaints and, with Legco's authorisation, have the authority to summon witnesses under the Legislative Council (Powers and Privileges) Ordinance to investigate allegations. Leung said if passed, the new code and associated measures will take effect at the start of the eighth Legislative Council term in December.
South China Morning Post
18 hours ago
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong lawmakers may face suspension, pay cuts under proposed misconduct rules
Hong Kong's legislature is expected to investigate evidence-based, real-name complaints about lawmakers' conduct through a committee with an expanded scope, as part of a proposal to revamp current guidelines and regulations. Advertisement Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen, president of the Legislative Council, said on Thursday that those found in violation could face the maximum penalty of suspension from office and salary deductions, but stopped short of naming specific standards to categorise 'minor, serious and gross' misconduct. 'The revamped Rules of Procedures provide a very good framework, under which lawmakers can perform their duties better … they have no impact on those who sincerely work for the city and residents,' Leung told reporters, hours after the proposal was uploaded to Legco's website. 'We cannot categorise the level of seriousness based on empty talk. It should be based on investigation and evidence, and whether certain conduct has harmed the legislature's reputation.' Leung previously said that lawmakers having an affair with their assistants were 'more likely' to violate the revamped rules. Advertisement The proposal will be discussed by the House Committee on Friday and is expected to be tabled at the Legco meeting on July 23. If approved, it will be applied to the next legislature, which will begin its term on January 1, 2026. According to the proposed amendments, the current Committee on Members' Interests will be upgraded to the 'Legislative Council Supervisory Committee', which consists of 13 members with expanded functions, including conducting investigations based on real-name complaints with evidence provided.
