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In response to press enquiries on remarks by Mr Yeung Sum, Chairman of the Democratic Party in a radio programme today(December 8), a government spokesman issued the following statement:
"Contrary to the view of Mr Yeung, Hong Kong has made considerable progress in the five years since 1997. We have implemented successfully "One Country, Two Systems" - an arrangement unprecedented in history. We have weathered the storm of the Asian financial crises. And we have introduced reforms in many sectors to make Hong Kong a better place to live and work.
"Under the Accountability System, the Chief Executive leads the team of Principal Officials to be accountable to the people of Hong Kong.
"On the pace of democracy, it is progressing in accordance with the Basic Law, which states that the ultimate aim is the election of all members of the Legislative Council and of the Chief Executive by universal suffrage. In the mean time, the proportion of directly elected seats in the Legislative Council will be increased to 50 per cent in 2004. In the period leading up to 2007, we will undertake a review of these electoral issues and conduct public consultation before taking a final view.
"The proposals to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law are home-grown and based on existing legislation. There is no question of extending Mainland laws and concepts on national security to Hong Kong. The proposals would not undermine in any way the existing human rights and civil liberties enjoyed by the people of Hong Kong."
End/Sunday, December 8, 2002
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