After seeking the Executive Council's advice, the Government has accepted in principle the report by the Independent Commission on the Remuneration Package & Post-office Arrangements for the Chief Executive.

On the basis of the commission's recommendations, the Government will formulate detailed arrangements for the remuneration and post-office arrangements.

It will brief the Legislative Council Panel on Constitutional Affairs about its position on June 20, and listen to members' views. In light of the panel's feedback, it will seek Finance Committee approval.

Retain remuneration

The commission submitted its report on June 9, recommending the existing package should continue to be applicable to the new CE returned through next month's by-election.

The new package, to be implemented in July 2007, is a total cash package set at 12.5% over the pay of the Chief Secretary for Administration.

The report also recommended that former CEs should be subject to post-office employment control within three years of leaving office.

Former CEs will be provided office accommodation and administrative support, plus a car and driver to discharge promotional and protocol-related functions.