Views sought: Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa meets the New Territories West community leaders to hear their views on various issues.

Social stability is important in the process of economic restructuring, Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa says, adding that he will stay in his post to ensure the economy recovers.

Mr Tung said in a free society like Hong Kong, it is natural to have voices speaking against his governance.

Speaking after meeting New Territories West community leaders this evening, Mr Tung said this was the fourth meeting with local representatives, adding that the meeting was useful and helped him better grasp the community's needs.

He will ask Principal Officials to enhance their communication with District Councils and visit the community to better understand their needs.

Mr Tung said he was originally prepared to receive a letter from petitioners today, however, some people's behaviour had disrupted this. He has instructed the Secretary for Home Affairs to take the letter for him.