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Drivers given online option for permits

Members of the public can now apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) through an online service launched today by the Transport Department.   Users of “iAM Smart+” or eligible applicants holding a valid personal digital certificate may apply online via the GovHK website and receive their IDP by post, without the need to visit a licensing office in person.   If the submitted documents and photograph are in order, the department will normally send successful applicants their IDP by registered post within 10 working days of the online application being made.   The department reminded those who plan to drive outside of Hong Kong to allow sufficient time for the IDP applications to be processed.   Citizens may continue to submit IDP applications by visiting licensing offices in person. Appointments can be booked online or by calling 3763 8080 to save queuing time.   Drivers may also send in their IDP applications by post or via the drop-in boxes placed at licensi

Lawmakers' oaths determined valid

The Government today announced that Chief Executive Carrie Lam, as oath administrator, has determined that the oaths taken by all 90 Legislative Council members-elect are valid.   The ceremony was held for the seventh-term LegCo members at the Chamber of the LegCo Complex.   The Government noted that Basic Law Article 104 stipulates that, when assuming office, LegCo members must, in accordance with the law, swear to uphold the Basic Law and swear allegiance to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.   According to the Interpretation of Article 104 of the Basic Law passed by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on November 7, 2016, the person administering the oath has the duty to ensure that the oath is taken in a lawful manner.   The oath administrator shall determine that an oath taken in compliance with the interpretation and the requirements under the laws of the Hong Kong SAR is valid, and that an oath taken which is not taken in compliance with such interpretation and requirements is invalid.   Additionally, if the oath taken is determined as invalid, no arrangement shall be made for retaking the oath.   According to the Public Offices (Candidacy & Taking Up Offices) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Ordinance 2021 that was gazetted and came into effect on May 21, 2021, the amended Oaths & Declarations Ordinance stipulates that the oath taken by LegCo members must be administered by the Chief Executive or a person authorised by the Chief Executive.   Based on the principles laid down by the interpretation and the relevant legal provisions, the Chief Executive has officially decided that the oaths taken by all LegCo members-elect are valid.
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