Transcript of a stand-up briefing given by SCA after a youth summit on constitutional development
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Following is the transcript (English portion) of a stand-up briefing given by the Secretary for Constitutional Affairs, Mr Stephen Lam, after he has attended a youth summit on constitutional development today (October 23):
Reporter: What would you do to ensure that all legislators will go to Beijing? Do you think it will be unfair if one is to be excluded?
SCA: In the last few months, we have acted very positively to promote communication between the Central Authorities and various political parties and groups in Hong Kong. In April, we arranged for the representatives of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and different legislators to meet and exchange views on matters related to constitutional development. We welcome the fact that, in August, various legislators took part in the celebration organised by the Garrison in Hong Kong. Also, at the end of September, several dozens of legislators joined the HKSAR delegation to take part in the 55th Anniversary celebrations in Beijing.
We want to continue to promote these communications between the Central Authorities and different political parties and representatives and legislators in Hong Kong. So, we would continue to act in this direction.
Reporter: But if the leaders are to invite all legislators to Beijing because they want to meet them, would it not be unfair then if one is to be excluded? What would you do to ensure that all legislators are treated fairly?
SCA: The Chief Executive has already agreed to meet with the 25 members of the pan-democratic camp in the next few weeks. So, he will have an opportunity to meet with these legislators and listen to their views and aspirations directly. As an overall direction for pursuit, we would continue to promote communication between the Central Authorities and political parties and legislators in Hong Kong.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Saturday, October 23, 2004
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