head of each District Office, the Government representative at the district level;

overseeing the operation of the District Administration Scheme;

implementing and co-ordinating the execution of district programmes, ensuring that the advice of the District Council is properly followed up and promoting residents' participation in district affairs;

maintaining close liaison with different sectors of the community to reflect their views to Government;

ensuring that district problems are resolved promptly through inter-departmental consultation and co-operation;

as a link between the District Council and Government departments and a mediator between unions, corporate bodies and residents; and

as a co-ordinator in the provision of relief services in emergency situations.