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There are a total of 167 candidates for the first HKSAR Legislative Council election to be held in May this year.

A spokesman for the Constitutional Affairs Bureau said today (Friday) that he was pleased with the record number of candidates.

"It is particularly encouraging that 81 candidates from 34 lists will contest in the geographical elections," he said.

Noting that the candidates come from all walks of the community, the spokesman said: "We welcome this. It gives voters more choice. It also underscores widespread support for the election."

The Electoral Affairs Commission is finalising the necessary practical arrangements for the election.

"We are confident that the election will be conducted in an open and fair manner, and the legislature so returned will be credible and representative," the spokesman said.

The Government will also step up publicity in the next few weeks in accordance with the publicity plan to urge all eligible voters to cast their votes on May 24, he added.

End/Friday, April 24, 1998

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