Code on Access to Information
The Government exists to serve the community well within available resources. To this end, it recognises the need for the community to be well informed about the Government, the services it provides and the basis for policies and decisions that affect individuals and the community as a whole.
The Code on Access to Information (the Code) defines the scope of information that will be provided, sets out how the information will be made available either routinely or in response to a request, and lays down procedures governing its prompt release.
The Code authorises and requires civil servants, routinely or on request, to provide information unless there are specific reasons for not doing so. These reasons are set out in Part 2 and will normally be referred to if a request for information is refused.
Requests for information will be handled as promptly and helpfully as possible and if necessary, members of the public may be approached to clarify their requests or the requests may be directed to the most appropriate department. Procedures will be kept as simple as possible.
The Code also sets out procedures for review or complaint if a member of the public considers that the provisions of the Code have not been properly applied.
The Code can be accessed at http://www.access.gov.hk.
Implementation
The Innovation and Technology Commission implements the Code which stipulates that information held by the government will be made available, either routinely or on request, unless there are valid reasons related to public, private or commercial interest to withhold the information.
Requests for Information
Records available at the Innovation and Technology Commission to which the public may have access are shown by category in the list below -
Requests for the information or records may be made by e-mail, letter or application form.
Request for information by e-mail
The application should be addressed to:
Access to Information Officer
Innovation and Technology Commission
21/F, West Wing, Central Government Offices,
2 Tim Mei Avenue, Tamar, Hong Kong
The Access to Information Officer is responsible for ensuring that requests for access to information under the Code are properly dealt with in accordance with specified procedures.
Charges
Other than publications/information which are available free of charge, or at cost specified, the commission will levy a photocopying charge for the information sought. The applicant will be informed in advance of the charge to be levied.
Enquiries
For enquiries, please contact us at:
Tel : (852) 3655 5856
Fax : (852) 2730 4633
e-mail : enquiry@itc.gov.hk
