| SCMA speaks to the media after attending radio programmes |
|
Following is the transcript of the remarks of the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Stephen Lam, to the media after attending radio programmes this (June 26) morning: There is a lot of interest in the detailed arrangements for prescribing the electoral methods to return five Legislative Councillors nominated by elected District Councillors and voted into office by 3.2 million registered voters. There are political parties which suggest that we should put all five seats together in one name list to be voted upon by the 3.2 million voters by proportional representation. However, there are smaller political parties and potential independent candidates who are concerned that the electoral expenses limit will then be very high. This is a matter on which we need to consult during the summer months, and for us to put together a final set of proposals by the autumn. Also, there have been questions raised during the radio programmes that I attended this morning as regards the commitment of the HKSAR Government to abolish appointed District Council seats. That overall direction is firm. We will put forth proposals to abolish appointed District Council seats by the autumn of this year. But as regards the details of the proposal, the time-frame within which the abolition will take place, this is a matter on which we still need to take various views into account over the summer months. Thank you very much. (Please refer also to the Chinese transcript.) Ends/Saturday, June 26, 2010 |