The Government respects the aspiration and perseverance of students in upholding democracy and their expectations for and commitment to the future of Hong Kong.
It made the statement today in response to media enquiries on class boycotts by tertiary students.
The Government said it understands students' concern about social issues and has always attached importance to nurturing students who can think independently from multiple perspectives, hold respect for evidence and be open, fair and accommodating in regard to others' views and values.
The debate on constitutional development is complicated and controversial, and it is understandable that there are divergent views and disputes in regard to specific proposals, in a diverse society like Hong Kong's, the statement said.
The National People's Congress Standing Committee made a decision on August 31 confirming the election of the Chief Executive by universal suffrage in 2017. The Government will work with Legislative Councillors to forge a consensus on implementing universal suffrage according to the law on schedule.
The statement said the Government firmly believes that a step forward in Hong Kong's constitutional development is better than a stalemate and will launch the next round of public consultation soon.
It also appealed to various sectors, having expressed their views thoroughly, to engage in fresh dialogue and rational discussions, and seize the opportunity to allow five million eligible voters to cast their ballots for the Chief Executive in 2017 through one person, one vote.
