Initial idea: Electoral Affairs Commission Chairman Justice Woo Kwok-hing unveils the provisional name and boundary recommendations for the 2007 District Council Election.

Public views are being sought on proposed boundaries and names of the 405 constituencies in the 2007 District Council Election.

It has been proposed that the boundaries of 133 constituencies in the 18 Districts be modified to meet population quota requirements, and that another nine constituencies be adjusted in the light of geographical or development factors.

Electoral Affairs Commission Chairman Justice Woo Kwok-hing said the population quota for the 2007 election is 17,275 people per constituency. It is calculated by dividing the population of Hong Kong by the 405 elected seats - one in each constituency.

"As a 25% deviation above or below the quota is legally acceptable, the population range in a constituency can vary between 12,956 and 21,594 people," Justice Woo said.

Political factors

"The commission will not be swayed by any political factors, or any consideration that will fortress or create political dominance for any people or parties. We will not consider any reasons or arguments cited in this regard," he added.

On proposed constituency names, Justice Woo said they were formulated with reference to major features, roads or major estates in the area, and the views of District Officers.

The commission will submit its final recommendations, which will take into account representations received during the consultation period, to the Chief Executive in November.

Public forums

People can submit written representations by August 25, or express their views at public forums. The forum for constituencies on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon will be held on August 15 at City Hall. The forum for constituencies in the New Territories East and West will be on August 16 at Sha Tin Town Hall.

Maps of the proposed constituency boundaries and a boundary description booklet are available for inspection at more than 600 locations, including the Registration & Electoral Office, District Offices, post offices, management offices of public housing estates and public libraries.

They can also be viewed at www.eac.gov.hk. Enquiries can be made on 2827 1269.