Constructive step: Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang chairs the inaugural Family Council meeting.

Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang chaired the first meeting of the new Family Council today, hailing it a useful and constructive step to forming an integrated, holistic and high-level body as pledged in Chief Executive's Policy Address.

Mr Tang said members shared common goals of establishing a family-based support network and forging closer and harmonious relationships among family members. He said he looked forward to working closely with members in reviewing and formulating family-related policies.

Members exchanged views on their expectations of the council's work and issues to be addressed in coming meetings, such as identifying core family values, creating a pro-family environment, and enhancing family education effectiveness and co-ordination.

Members agreed to rationalise the work of the Elderly Commission, the Women's Commission and the Commission on Youth under the council by March 2009.

The council comprises five Government officials and 16 non-official members from the social welfare, academic, commercial and industrial sectors.