The Department of Justice is studying the need for legislation on apologies by public agencies in Hong Kong, and will consult the public as soon as the study is complete.

The department said today it noted the Ombudsman's suggestion to consider introducing the legislation, which would allow for apologies without incurring extra legal liabilities.

A sub-committee under the Steering Committee on Mediation is studying the matter, and will conduct a comprehensive comparative study of the position in other jurisdictions.

It will make recommendations on the need for such provisions, and on whether they should be separate legislation, or part of the Mediation Ordinance.

The Secretary for Justice, as the steering committee's chairman, will ensure that a report is released for public consultation when ready, it said.