Established procedures have been strictly followed in selecting a consultant for the pay level survey, the Civil Service Bureau says.

In considering the consultant's proposals relevant procedures have been clearly explained to staff side members.

Regarding some members' concern over the consultant's involvement in a Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce survey in 2002, the bureau said after a review on the selection process and consultation with the Department of Justice, there is no valid reason to overturn the appointment.

The consultant has provided information which indicates the two surveys are different in methodology, compensation elements covered as well as the data analysis method. It is inappropriate to compare results of the two surveys.

The methodology adopted for the survey has been carefully devised after two years' intensive discussion with staff side members.