Hong Kong's constitutional development can move forward according to the Basic Law and the National People's Congress Standing Committee's decision, and all sectors of the community should work together on the issue and build a consensus through rational and frank discussions.

This was the message from Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang in his Letter to HK radio programme today.

Mr Tsang said the committee has set out clearly the extent of changes to the methods for selecting the Chief Executive in 2007 and forming the Legislative Council in 2008.

Much room to explore reform proposals

There is much room for Hong Kong people to explore the concrete proposals for constitutional reform, and members of the public are welcome to air their views, he said.

Mr Tsang added that only through rational discussions and consensus building can constitutional development achieve success.

He called on all sectors to set aside their differences, and not to waste time on confrontations or arguments which go beyond the committee's decision.

He also reiterated that both the Central Authorities and the Government remain prudent on the issue, as any constitutional change will affect Hong Kong's social stability and economic development, as well as the interests of different sectors.

To avoid any political risks and impact to the city's economy and social stability, Hong Kong's political reform should progress orderly and gradually.

Task force's third report ready this month

The Constitutional Development Task Force is preparing its third report, which will outline possible changes in the election methods.

The report will be out sometime this month and the public will be widely consulted.