Better protection: Chief Secretary Henry Tang says the Government will soon propose tougher privacy laws.

Chief Secretary Henry Tang says the Government is working with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data to table new legislation to better protect the public as soon as possible.

With the completion of the public consultation on privacy law revision last year, Mr Tang today told reporters the Government will soon table a legislative proposal for public discussion.

The privacy watchdog's recent investigation into private companies' handling of customers' personal information will help the Government fine-tune the proposal.

He hoped the office will complete its investigation soon and conclude whether the companies' acts are legal or not. He also urged the office to suggest whether the regulatory mechanism can be improved.

The office has contacted regulatory bodies of the financial, telecommunications and other sectors to ensure the trades comply with regulations and guidelines.

"The recent incidents have aroused public awareness of privacy protection which requires joint efforts by the Government, the public and the trades.