Being subtropical in the typhoon zone, Macao has a warm and humid weather with plenty of rainfall. While the governor of Macao has always been appointed by the Portuguese president and Macao's judiciary is governed by Portuguese laws, the Macao regional government enjoys autonomy in the administrative, economic, financial and legislative affairs. Now Macao is gradually moving towards achieving judicial independence. It has set up a high court and except for individual cases, normally final adjudication is made in local courts. The Constitution of Portugal provides that the Portuguese Macao Government is accountable to the Portuguese President.
Members serve for four years.
The present 6th Legislative Assembly was formed in September, l996. Both the Assembly and Governor have legislative powers. The Macao Consultative Council is a consultative organ for the Governor, who nominates the members. The Council is made up of senior officials of the Portuguese Macao government and celebrities from all circles in Macao. Economy Macao is a free port.