People who want to join the proposed political cadre should bear the same vision as the Chief Executive, Secretary for Constitutional Affairs Stephen Lam says.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Mr Lam said the new political cadre will bolster support to the Chief Executive and Principal Officials in their political work. This will offer a new channel for people with political aspirations to join the Government, while the neutrality of the civil service can be maintained.

He said the proposal will not be tailor-made for a particular political party, adding people from all walks of life can join. The functions and structure of district councils will also be reviewed to expand their role.

On boosting ties with the Mainland, Mr Lam said offices will be set up in Shanghai and Chengdu to promote exchange with the Mainland's east and the southwestern regions. As many Hong Kong people travel to Guangdong, Immigration officers may be deployed to the HK Economic & Trade Office there.