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The following is issued on behalf of the Executive Council Secretariat:
The Convenor of the Non-official Members of the Executive Council (Exco), Mr Leung Chun-ying, and some Exco Members met the media on the 2009-10 Budget at the Legislative Council Building today (February 25). Following is the transcript of Mr Leung's remarks (English portion):
Reporter: Some legislators said ... to help the grassroots, what¡¦s your response?
Mr Leung: It is a very challenging task for any Financial Secretary or for anyone to be responsible for the preparation of budgets of any entity and particularly for an open economy like Hong Kong. It is a very challenging task. I believe the Financial secretary has done his best and he should be commended for this in looking after not just the immediate needs of a small sector of Hong Kong¡¦s population, but the mid-term and long-term needs of the whole of Hong Kong. I think he¡¦s done a commendable job in striking a good balance.
Reporter: ... your view on what some legislators have just done?
Mr Leung: I think we should all condemn the violent actions which we all saw in the chamber and also through the media. The situation has worsened compared to the first attempt a few months ago when the Policy Address being delivered by the Chief Executive was interrupted in the chamber of the Legislative Council. Their action has set a very bad example for Hong Kong and has given Hong Kong a very bad name and bad image in the international community.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Issued at HKT 14:52
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