Mapped out: Chief Secretary Henry Tang tells radio listeners the Government's revised election package will push Hong Kong's political system forward.

Chief Secretary Henry Tang says the Government can consider abolishing the District Council appointment system after the Legislative Council passes the proposed package for the 2012 electoral methods.

On a Radio Television Hong Kong programme today, Mr Tang said the Government recognises appointed district councillors' work and contribution, and that they should not be belittled.

However, if a sufficient number of opponents to the election package in LegCo pledge their support, the Government can consider abolishing the DC appointment system.

He noted the Government's revised package has been made after a three-month public consultation and thorough consideration, hoping to push the political system forward.

The door for discussion remains open, Mr Tang said, and the Government will strive to solicit every vote in LegCo for the package's passage.

He did not think the threshold for getting 150 nominations for contesting the Chief Executive election will affect potential candidates.

Meanwhile, on Qinghai's earthquake yesterday, Mr Tang expressed condolences to the victims and praised a Hong Kong volunteer who reportedly died.