******************************************************
The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang's Policy Address was pragmatic, progressive, and catered for the needs of all sectors of the community, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, said in the Legislative Council today (October 24).
Mr Tang pointed out that the Third Term HKSAR Government was sincere and determined to address the issue of universal suffrage within this five-year term in respect of constitutional development.
"We are summarising public views gathered during the consultation on the Green Paper on Constitutional Development. We will assess whether differences in opinions are narrowing down to provide the necessary basis for consensus-building to implement universal suffrage. The HKSAR Government will then publish the detailed findings and submit a report to the Central Government to faithfully reflect the views gathered," Mr Tang said.
Mr Tang believed that smooth governance formed the basis of a harmonious society. "Hong Kong people hope that the administration and the legislature can discharge their respective responsibilities according to the Basic Law, with the long-term interests of Hong Kong and the community's welfare at heart. The principal officials and I will make best efforts to work closely with the Legislative Council," he said.
He also emphasised that the Government would allocate more resources to enhancing the role of District Councils and encourage more public engagement in the formulation of major policy initiatives.
"Hong Kong's future is to maintain its unique role in bringing the Mainland and the world together. Our starting point, when positioning ourselves, must be the future of our country. Our priority is to fit into the long-term development strategy of our country and further strengthen co-operation with Mainland provinces and cities, in particular with Shenzhen, Guangdong and Pan-Pearl River Delta."
He pointed out that the Government would devote more resources to promoting the Basic Law and national education, with a view to enhancing Hong Kong people's understanding of the motherland.
"Our vision is to create a compassionate and caring society. The Policy Address proposed various pragmatic measures to enable people to help themselves through the joint efforts of the Government, private enterprises and individuals. The Government will positively consider suggestions that optimise the use of public resources and benefit those who are truly in need."
Mr Tang urged members of the Legislative Council to support the Policy Address and take forward measures that are in Hong Kong's long-term interest.
Ends/Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:56
NNNN
