East Wing Forecourt

In November 2018, the East Wing Forecourt was the subject of a High Court ruling. The court deemed government restrictions on access unconstitutional. This decision prompted Chief Executive Carrie Lam to announce a review of the guidelines governing access to the East Wing Forecourt. The East Wing Forecourt is part of the Central Government Offices. Mrs. Lam had reopened the forecourt after taking office in July 2017. She aimed to allow the public to express their views on government policies and social matters. This demonstrates the significance of the East Wing Forecourt as a space for public discourse. She acknowledged the need to balance public access with the smooth operation of the government offices. This led to the implementation of guidelines and mechanisms to manage access. The court ruling prompted a review of these regulations. The Department of Justice was tasked with studying the judgment. The Director of Administration was asked to revisit the guidelines. They wanted to identify potential changes or relaxations based on the past year’s experience. This highlights the ongoing evolution of the East Wing Forecourt’s accessibility. Prior to its closure in 2014, the East Wing Forecourt was available for public meetings and processions on Sundays and public holidays. Applications were processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with consultation from the Police regarding potential threats to public order. The East Wing Forecourt served as a platform for various public activities, subject to government approval and security considerations. This further emphasizes the importance of the East Wing Forecourt as a public space.