Access to Information
The Government exists to serve the community well within available resources. To this end, it recognizes 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 the Government will provide, 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. On the other hand, the Code authorizes and requires the departments, routinely or on request, to provide information unless there are specific reasons for not doing so. These reasons are set out in Part 2. The departments will normally refer these reasons 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. In addition, 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
Requests for information or records held by the Department may be made by email (code@housingauthority.gov.hk), letter or application form which is available at Housing Authority/Housing Department webpage, the public reading area of the Housing Authority Library and all Estate Offices. Applications should be addressed to :
Access to Information Officer
Housing Department
Housing Authority Headquarters
33 Fat Kwong Street
Ho Man Tin
Kowloon
Hong Kong
The following information is available at the Housing Authority Library :
Where possible information will be made available within 10 days of receipt of a written request. If that is not possible the applicant will be so advised by an interim reply within 10 days of receipt of the request. The target response time will then be 21 days from receipt of the request. The maximum response time under exceptional circumstances should not normally exceed 51 days from date of receipt of a request.
Other than publications which are available free of charge, or at cost specified, the following photocopying charges will be levied :
Photocopy black and white on A3 or A4 size paper with or without enlarging | HK$1.50 (A4 size) or HK$1.60 (A3 size) per page unless otherwise stated. ( Note : the above charge is subject to revision from time to time.) |
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For enquiries, please contact our Access to Information Officer at 2761 6018 during office hours. (Fax: 2711 4111)