The nine guiding principles that must be considered when determining ways to amend the methods for selecting the Chief Executive and for forming the Legislative Council are not additional criteria for constitutional reform.

This was the message today from Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang who told legislators at the Constitutional Affairs Panel special meeting if the constitutional proposals come close to meeting the nine points, Hong Kong will have a higher chance of reaching a consensus among the Chief Executive, Legislative Council and the Central Government.

Urging lawmakers to treat the Constitutional Development Task Force's second report in a fair way, Mr Tsang said the task force came up with the nine points after listening to public views and talking with related Central Government officials. It has not given any of them priority over others.

Two concepts considered together

Mr Tsang said it is difficult to define the meaning of 'gradual and orderly progress' clearly and objectively and different people may have different views about Hong Kong's actual situation. He thought the two concepts should be considered together.

When the National People's Congress Standing Committee endorses the Chief Executive's report, the task force will immediately study ways to amend the related selection methods and launch a wide consultation on the issue.

Mr Tsang promised that the consultation will be highly transparent and every sector of the community, including local residents, lawmakers, political parties and the academic sector, will be able to participate in the process.

The task force's next step will be determined by the committee's decision, he said, adding that the task force hopes to complete all the work by 2007.