The Chief Executive's Office says that as a responsible and committed Government, it should lead the community to forge a consensus on universal suffrage in a pragmatic, rational and step-by-step manner, to provide a solid foundation for establishing a model and timetable.

In response to a newspaper advertisement today urging the Chief Executive to set a timetable for universal suffrage, the office said he understands and recognises the community's aspirations.

He and the Government have made every effort to seek the early attainment of the ultimate aim of electing the Chief Executive and all Legislative Councillors by universal suffrage as provided for in the Basic Law.

The office said the Chief Executive is determined to enable Hong Kong's constitutional development to move towards the ultimate aim of universal suffrage.

"In November he initiated the discussion on formulating a roadmap for universal suffrage through the Committee on Governance & Political Development under the Commission on Strategic Development. The Chief Executive hopes to draw some conclusions by early 2007 and will reflect these to the central authorities," it said in a statement.