Constitutional development is an internal issue and it is inappropriate for Legislative Councillors to discuss the matter in a foreign legislature.

This was the message today from Secretary for Constitutional Affairs Stephen Lam who said it is a matter for the Central and HK Governments to deal with in accordance with the Basic Law.

Responding to questions on the US visit by several Legislative Councillors, Mr Lam said foreign governments and legislatures should respect Hong Kong's internal affairs, and local legislators should respect the roles which the Basic Law has conferred on Hong Kong. He said it is therefore inappropriate for them to discuss Hong Kong's constitutional development in a foreign legislature.

"We are disappointed at their decision to do so," he said.