Hong Kong, with its ingenuity and determination, will be able to rise to the challenge of setting Hong Kong's electoral systems on the right course beyond 2007, Secretary for Constitutional Affairs Stephen Lam says.

Speaking at a forum organised by Justice, the Hong Kong section of the International Commission of Jurists today, Mr Lam said the Basic Law has laid down a blueprint for constitutional development in the first 10 years after reunification.

"Our challenge is two-fold. We need to find a way within the parameters set down in the Basic Law and to find a formula which is in the overall interest of Hong Kong; and to build consensus on the way forward," he said.

Electors urged to cast votes in coming election

Mr Lam said he hoped to work with political parties and independent legislators in dealing with constitutional development beyond 2007.

On the coming District Council Election, Mr Lam urged voters to cast their votes and hoped the turnout rate will be higher than in 1999.

"The more people who come out to vote, the more enhanced will the representativeness of the members elected be. It will also have a positive bearing on Hong Kong's long term democratic progress," he added.