CE's concluding remarks in debate on constitutional reform package (with photos/video)

CE's concluding remarks in debate on constitutional reform package (with photos/video)
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     Following is the translation of the concluding remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, in the debate on the constitutional reform package today (June 17):

Fellow Hong Kong Citizens,

     For many years, the dispute over constitutional reform has unsettled Hong Kong people. A lot of emotions have been involved, including people's trust in our country, in the government and me, as well as their trust in the pursuit of democracy. To break this deadlock, all those involved in public administration must show their commitment and make clear their support for this reform package.

     In 2005, the pan-democrat bloc joined forces to veto the reform package. As a result, the community paid a high price. If the pan-democrat camp continues to oppose the package for the sake of opposing, then Hong Kong will be doomed to stay put. Empty talk and refusal to move ahead will not lead to democracy and, in fact, will not lead Hong Kong anywhere.

     Universal suffrage is our common goal. It is important that we forsake rhetoric and take a solid step forward, which will allow the Central Government, the Hong Kong SAR Government, the Hong Kong people, the pan-democrat camp and pro-establishment camp to set off for universal suffrage.

     I have already secured a timetable for universal suffrage: The Chief Executive and the Legislative Council may be elected by universal suffrage in 2017 and 2020 respectively. The door to universal suffrage is open. Our journey towards greater democracy has begun.

     On our shoulders rests the hopes of the seven million people in Hong Kong. We have nothing to fear, but we have to seize every minute and every second that is left, to go as far as we can, and to achieve as much as possible.

     To colleagues in the pan-democrat camp, and to all members of the Legislative Council, your support for the constitutional reform package on June 23 may seem like a small step from today's viewpoint. Yet, history will prove that it was a giant leap forward for our democratic development.

     Hong Kong people will remember your courage.

     Thank you.

Ends/Thursday, June 17, 2010
Issued at HKT 20:21

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