Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Stephen Lam says the Government is firmly committed to the implementation of universal suffrage and sincerely hopes that a consensual view will arise.

Speaking to the media after attending a radio programme today, Mr Lam said the community has been discussing widely and expressing views on the issue of constitutional development for more than 20 years.

He said it is now time to find an answer and called on the public, political parties and other bodies to discuss the matter proactively, and take a more pragmatic and active approach to resolve differences and seek consensus.

"We are firmly committed to attaining the ultimate aim of universal suffrage as stipulated in the Basic Law. We believe this is in Hong Kong's interest and we have every intention of going all the way to get this done."