Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee says Police officers have shown a high degree of professionalism and tolerance when handling protestors, who should respect Hong Kong's tradition of peaceful and orderly assembly.

Speaking to reporters today, Mr Lee said Police officers reacted with the minimum use of force only when protestors did something irrational. He expressed full confidence in their ability to maintain Hong Kong's law and order.

He stressed the city respects freedoms of expression and assembly, but will not tolerate any threat or use of violence in expressing views. He also called on protestors not to resort to violence.

Reform package leads to universal suffrage

On Hong Kong's political reform, Mr Lee said principal officials also long for democracy and freedom, and hope the city's political development moves towards the goal of universal suffrage.

He reiterated the Constitutional Development Task Force's proposal will lay a firm foundation for the road to universal suffrage. Noting many Hong Kong people have shown their support of the suggested reform package, he called on lawmakers to vote for the proposal on December 21.