The Basic Law Section 3 : The Legislature

Article 73 The Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region shall exercise the following powers and functions; ( 6 ) To debate any issue concerning public interests;

Through debating motions which are not intended to have legislative effect, Members express their views on issues of public concern or call on the Government to take certain actions. Members may also move motions for the adjournment of the Council for the purpose of discussing a specific issue of urgent public importance (Rule 16(2) of the Rules of Procedure) or raising any issue concerning public interest with a view to eliciting a reply from a designated public officer (Rule 16(4) of the Rules of Procedure). Besides, Members may move motions relating to procedural matters.