The legislature held its first-ever debate between contenders for leadership of the chamber over the next four years on Thursday, with finance sector councillor Ronick Chan going up against Starry Lee from the DAB.

Lawmakers are set to vote behind closed doors following the two-hour session.

Chan, who chaired the Legislative Council's finance committee before, said that while he had never been president or presided over meetings as an alternate, he was familiar with the council's rules.

He said he would do his best to push for the prosperity of Hong Kong together with fellow lawmakers, with one of the things at the top of his agenda being to work with the government in coping with the aftermath of the Wang Fuk Court inferno.

"The legislature needs to co-operate with the SAR government to expedite reviews, amend laws, approve funding requests and follow up on the government's reforms," Chan told his fellow lawmakers.

"To handle such urgent matters in a special manner, I will speed up the vetting of items related to the blaze if I am elected."

Lee said she would make use of her position as the sole Hong Kong member of the National People's Congress Standing Committee to act as a bridge between the national and local legislatures.

She said she would push for more opportunities borne out of national policies to be realised locally, to serve the country's development.

Lee said her 17 years as a Hong Kong lawmaker and three years at the country's top legislature meant she was the right person for the role.

"In the face of a complicated global situation and geopolitical conflicts, national security risks could come any time," she said.

"The legislature needs an experienced president who has a firm stance to respond to changes in a calm manner and resolutely safeguards national security."

Both candidates pledged not to vote, discuss government policies or be involved in decision making of their respective group and party, with Lee saying she wouldn't be involved in the DAB's caucus if she wins the race.

They also said they are open to having lawmakers making more community visits to better connect with the people.

Chan proposed moving public hearings and some panel meetings to town halls for more direct dialogue between lawmakers and the public.