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Following is the transcript of a media session by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, today (July 28) after meeting Legislative Councillors (English portion):
Chief Executive: Just now I had very useful discussions with 17 Legislative Council Members. They have expressed their views on various matters of public concern, particularly on Article 23 of the Basic Law, and constitutional review, how do we move forward. And I have carefully listened to their views.
The purpose of this meeting is to really listen to their views. And we will thoroughly consider those views. Nevertheless, I have made preliminary responses to a couple of issues during the meeting.
On Article 23 of the Basic Law, I made it clear that the next round of consultation will be conducted by the Government and it will be a very comprehensive one. The purpose is to win the maximum support and understanding of the community. We have not set a timetable for the legislative process.
Our constitutional review must be a thorough one. We shall listen carefully to public views and with regard to the timing of such consultation, we will make sure that there will be plenty of time for the public to discuss and be consulted on this matter.
In short, today's meeting was a useful one for me. In the days ahead, I will continue to meet Legislative Council members and various sectors of the community to enhance our communication and to listen to their concerns, aspirations and views about our governance.
Reporter: On Basic Law Article 23 ....?
Chief Executive: I have said that the consultation process will be a very comprehensive one and that we want to have the support of the community as a whole, not only just the support but also the maximum understanding, and we have not set a timetable for the legislative process.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript)
End/Monday, July 28, 2003
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