For how long must a member of the Legislative Council be absent without consent to be deemed unqualified?

A member of the Legislative Council (LegCo) in Hong Kong is deemed unqualified if they are absent from meetings for a continuous period of three months without the consent of the council. This provision is outlined in the relevant legislative framework, which aims to ensure that members actively participate in the legislative process and maintain their responsibilities to their constituents.

The three-month absence rule reflects the importance of active involvement in governance and legislative duties. Should a member be absent beyond this threshold without obtaining permission, it signals a possible failure to fulfill their role effectively, thereby justifying the deeming of unqualification. Such measures are in place to uphold the integrity and functionality of the council, ensuring that it remains a robust platform for representation and legislative action.

This duration serves to balance the need for members to manage personal or professional commitments while still holding them accountable to their responsibilities.