Government should probe department heads ‘cautiously’ under new system: Regina Ip

Regina Ip, a top advisor to Hong Kong's leader, stated the government should cautiously probe department heads under the new accountability system to avoid demoralizing civil servants. Ip, convenor of the Executive Council, emphasized the system should encourage leaders to identify departmental deficiencies and improve handling of resident complaints. She cautioned against initiating investigations solely based on persistent problems. Instead, the government should consider departmental responses and whether investigations genuinely enhance administrative efficiency. Ip's comments come as Hong Kong prepares to implement this new system, aiming to improve governance and responsiveness. The focus should be on improving efficiency and not just punishing mistakes.