The Government Confidentiality Agreement is a critical legal instrument used in Hong Kong when government entities need to share sensitive or classified information with third parties, contractors, or other organizations. This document is essential for protecting government secrets, maintaining national security, and ensuring compliance with Hong Kong's legal framework, including the Official Secrets Ordinance and Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance. It is commonly used in government procurement, public-private partnerships, research collaborations, and consulting engagements where external parties require access to confidential government information. The agreement sets out comprehensive security protocols, defines handling procedures for different classifications of information, and establishes clear responsibilities and liabilities for information recipients.

1. Parties: Identification of the government department/agency and the receiving party, including their legal status and representatives

2. Background: Context of the agreement, relationship between parties, and purpose of sharing confidential information

3. Definitions: Detailed definitions including 'Confidential Information', 'Government Information', 'Official Secrets', 'Authorized Personnel', and other key terms

4. Scope of Confidential Information: Detailed description of what constitutes confidential information under the agreement, including classifications and categories

5. Obligations of Confidentiality: Core confidentiality obligations, including handling, storage, and protection of confidential information

6. Security Measures: Specific security protocols and measures required for protecting confidential information

7. Authorized Personnel: Requirements for personnel access, security clearance, and training requirements

8. Permitted Disclosures: Circumstances under which confidential information may be disclosed, including legal requirements and government authorizations

9. Return or Destruction of Information: Procedures for returning or destroying confidential information upon request or termination

10. Breach and Notification: Procedures for reporting and handling security breaches or unauthorized disclosures

11. Term and Termination: Duration of confidentiality obligations and termination provisions

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Specification of Hong Kong law as governing law and jurisdiction for disputes

13. General Provisions: Standard provisions including severability, amendments, and entire agreement