Trust builder: Chief Executive Donald Tsang urges lawmakers to back the 2012 electoral package.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang has repeated calls for lawmakers to back the Government's electoral reform package for 2012, to reflect the majority wish of the people and for the benefit of Hong Kong's democratic development.

Attending the Legislative Council question-and-answer session today, Mr Tsang said the legislature, the SAR Government and the Central authorities all have a crucial, decisive role in Hong Kong's constitutional development. That is why it is essential to get the three parties' co-operation to achieve results.

"We must step out of skepticism and mutual distrust. Today we must no longer focus on short-term and personal gain. It is time for us to make practical and solid efforts in the spirit of mutual understanding and accommodation, as well as the public good. Step by step, we can build the foundation for mutual trust and arrive finally at our common destination of universal suffrage," Mr Tsang said.

He noted a number of public opinion polls showed far more people are in support of the 2012 package than those against it. There is nothing to lose but everything to gain in terms of mutual trust among the Central authorities, the SAR Government, the legislature and the general public if the package is endorsed, he stressed.

"We may have lofty goals in our pursuit for democracy, but if it cannot be achieved overnight then we must keep our feet firmly on the ground, and move closer and closer until we reach our ultimate goal," he said.

"Honourable members, your support for the passage of the Government's package would not stand in the way of your pursuit of your lofty goals, nor the realisation of your lofty ideals. But more important is that your support of the package reflects the majority wish of the people."

The Chief Executive added the 2012 package is, in fact, more progressive and democratic than the current electoral methods are, as well as a step forward towards the aim of achieving universal suffrage in 2017/2020. It is also not in conflict with the pursuit of a more democratic LegCo election in 2016.