The Government will not appoint any candidates who took part in the 2003 District Council polls and failed to win election.

In a statement, the Government said it has already undertaken to conduct a review on the composition, roles and functions of the District Councils after the 2003 DC election, adding that the appointment system will be part of the review.

It said it will consult the public extensively during the process of conducting this review.

It is a more prudent approach to cover the appointment system as part of the review, and this will ensure that the public will have adequate time to discuss the issue, it said.

Noting that the appointment system is aimed at providing a channel for individuals who are capable, experienced and interested in district affairs to serve the community, the Government said the appointed members can also help reflect the views of different sectors in the districts and can contribute to discussions in the DCs.

Before appointing an eligible person to a DC, the Government said, it will take into account a range of factors including his or her integrity, ability, experience in district affairs, professional qualifications, public service record and commitment to serve the public.

In addition, candidates who took part and were not elected in the 2003 DC election will not be appointed, it added.