*****************************************************
Following is the transcript of remarks made by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, at a media session on the proposed establishment of the Innovation and Technology Bureau (ITB) after attending the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting today (February 4):
Reporter: Mr So, would the Government put in more effort to persuade Legislative Councillors who are currently filibustering? Do you think by extending two sessions (of the Finance Committee meeting), you are optimistic that it (the item on the proposed establishment of ITB) would get passed?
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development: I believe my colleagues have tried their very best in explaining to LegCo members the importance of the formation of the Innovation and Technology Bureau. We would be very happy to answer any questions. In fact my whole team was there (at the Finance Committee meeting) yesterday prepared to answer any questions, but unfortunately only one question (relating to the ITB) was raised yesterday in the two-hour meeting.
With respect to whether I am confident that this will be passed, I think the ball is in the LegCo members' court. We need their collaboration and co-operation. I think the people of Hong Kong are watching this very closely. We should proactively and constructively move forward and should not allow filibustering to hinder the progress of Hong Kong.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Wednesday, February 4, 2015
Issued at HKT 16:07
NNNN
