CE's transcript after meeting Members of the Legislative Council (with photos/video)

CE's transcript after meeting Members of the Legislative Council (with photos/video)
*********************************************************

     Following is the transcript of remarks (English portion) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at a media standup after meeting Members of the Legislative Council today (November 6):

Chief Executive: Today I met with Members of the Legislative Council to listen to their views, before the release of the public consultation paper on the methods for electing the Chief Executive and the Legislative Council in 2012. I will reflect the views gathered in the consultation paper as far as possible.

     There have been diverse views on the electoral arrangements for 2012. On the face of it, it may appear that it is a difficult task for a consensus to emerge.  But I do believe, however, that despite all these differences, Hong Kong people have a common goal. We all want our political system to be more democratic in 2012. In my discussions with the legislators today, I feel strongly that this is a vision that we all share.  This is the common ground that we should treasure and build on.

     Political reform is not a zero-sum game.  We should all work towards a consensus.  But how exactly we should take each step forward is something that requires rational discussion, practical negotiation, and, most important, a commitment to Hong Kong's long-term interests.

     I should also stress that it is important that we act in accordance with the law.  We should base our consultation firmly on the principles enshrined in the Basic Law and the decision of the National People's Congress Standing Committee (NPCSC) in 2007.

     Both the Chief Executive and the Legislature have a vital role to play in the constitutional development of Hong Kong.  I believe in communication.  On my part, today, I have listened to the councillors' opinions with humility and an open mind.  We shall continue to listen to them and other sectors of the community during the consultation period.  Thank you.

Reporter: How would you assess right now the likelihood of finding agreement and if there is no agreement, could there still be progress in 2017 and 2020 irrespective of 2012?

Chief Executive: What we have to remember is our immediate task is to try our very best to reach a consensus in 2012. It is important not only that we make progress, it is something we owe to the people of Hong Kong. Democratic development cannot happen suddenly. We must move on. We missed a golden opportunity in 2005 and we must not repeat that mistake. Constitutionally, the Central Government has indicated in its decision in 2007 that we will have universal suffrage of the Chief Executive in 2017. That will happen. That is quite clear.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Friday, November 6, 2009
Issued at HKT 17:47

NNNN