Chief Executive Donald Tsang warns Hong Kong people will not accept irrational behaviour and urged that the good dialogue between the Government and the People's Alliance on MC6 issues continue.

Speaking after attending the Joint Chambers of Commerce luncheon today, Mr Tsang said the Government has met with the alliance six times and solved some difficult questions. He hopes they will continue calm discussions.

Mr Tsang said yesterday's NGO Roundtable Forum was a meaningful meeting and he was disappointed the press briefing had to be cancelled due to the chaotic situation. He said the Government must balance letting the community express views, while ensuring the smooth running of the WTO meeting.

Irrational behaviour

Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology John Tsang was disappointed by the protesters' irrational behaviour. He said he welcomed constructive dialogue.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, he said Hong Kong people are used to demonstrations, but will not accept violence.

On criticism that he had avoided reporters after the forum, he said he was prepared to meet the media and petitioners but the situation became too chaotic.

Vital meeting

He said the WTO 6th Ministerial Conference in December is key to determining whether the Doha Development Agenda negotiations can be successfully concluded by the end of 2006.

Agriculture is the key issue, and if an agreement is reached, more than 140 million people could rise above the poverty line. If a third of tariffs on agricultural products and services can be cut, another US$800 billion will be added to world income.

He said Hong Kong is a beneficiary of multilateral trade and hosting MC6 will show it is a responsible member of the international community.