Among other measures for ensuring openness, transparency and accountability, the Government uses the Internet to disseminate information on its policies, services and activities and to communicate with the public. All bureaux and departments produce their home pages in Chinese and English. Thematic home pages are also produced for special events and topics. These home pages can be accessed through the Government Information Centre (GIC) at http://www.gov.hk.

The GIC provides 24-hour news updates, consultation papers and topical information to enable the public to keep track of local developments and important announcements. It is also a portal to a wide range of electronic services of various departments and agencies, including the submission of tax returns, appointment booking service for the Hong Kong Smart Identity Card replacement exercise, payment of government fees and the purchase of government publications.

The Government's e-bulletin (www.news.gov.hk) is another effective means of presenting to the public a comprehensive spread of government news, views and information. Being a website with interactive and multimedia features, it has become a valuable tool in enhancing the transparency of the Government.