NATIONAL PROFILE on Chemicals Management - UNITAR

7 3 System to obtain opinions and informationexperts, private organisations, etc.● Advisory councilsWithin the scope of their mandate, the national administrative organisations mayestablish, under stipulation of laws and ministerial ordinances, advisory councils to takecharge of investigation and administrative review of important matters, and ofadministration which ought to be handled through consultation among intellectuals.● Public comment proceduresThis is a part of the policy formulation process. Administrative organisations shallpublicise the draft policies and provide opportunities for the general public/businesses toexpress their opinions or information about the drafts. The government shall give dueconsideration to these opinions, etc. and make a final decision.The Cabinet decided that such an opportunity has to be provided (23 March 1999),particularly if national administrative organisation establishes new regulations or changesthe content of existing regulations or abolishes regulations. This has been implementedsince April 1999.The government aims to ensure fairness and enhance transparency in theadministrative decision making process through this procedure, while having a good graspof various opinions/information/special knowledge of the general public/businesses.53