His call has sparked concerns among some observers about the possible impacts of budget cuts, including higher living costs for the underprivileged, which might contradict other government policies and harm the city’s long-term development.
The Post identifies the top spenders in government and breaks down their expenditure.
1. Which are the top spenders in the Hong Kong government?
The Social Welfare Department topped the list for expenditure with HK$108.62 billion, or around 18 per cent of total public spending, according to revised estimates for the financial year 2023-24. It spent the most on expenses related to social security, including to support those from underprivileged groups.
The Health Bureau was the second-highest spender, with HK$96.77 billion or about 16 per cent of total expenses. Over 96 per cent of its financial resources went to the Hospital Authority, the statutory body managing 43 public hospitals and institutions.
The Education Bureau came in third with HK$79.69 billion, or 13 per cent of total spending. About 40 per cent of expenses fell under education in secondary schools, while around 31 per cent went to primary education.
Expenses for staff pensions came in fourth, at 8 per cent of spending, while the Treasury branch under the Financial Services and Treasury Bureau occupied fifth spot, with most of its funds going to payouts for the one-off consumption voucher scheme.
