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Financial Secretary Henry Tang says the Government is aware of the need to keep Hong Kong's regulatory framework updated to help develop social enterprises. He told legislators today the Government will keep track of overseas experience when considering a suitable legal vehicle to promote their development.
The Government is uncertain whether relaxing requirements under the Co-operative Societies Ordinance is the best way to facilitate development.
"The next administration will decide on the most suitable institutional structure to continue to further promote their development in Hong Kong," he said.
Since last year's launch of the Enhancing Self-Reliance Through District Partnership Programme, 41 projects have been approved. Mr Tang expects they will create 750 employment opportunities for the socially disadvantaged.
In 2006-07, the Education & Manpower Bureau, Labour, Home Affairs, Food & Environmental Hygiene, Social Welfare, and Leisure & Cultural Services Departments, and the Hospital Authority, procured $28 million worth of goods and services from social enterprises. About $32 million worth of goods and services will be procured during 2007-08.
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