Legco back on the right track: Zheng Yanxiong
The director of the liaison office, Zheng Yanxiong, on Friday said the Legislative Council is back on the right track, as he hailed a “new era” in Hong Kong's development. Speaking at a luncheon with lawmakers at Legco, Zheng noted that the legislature has passed more bills than it did in the previous term, and said it has addressed deep-rooted issues. “Long-standing issues, such as the cancellation of the MPF offsetting mechanism and regulation of internet copyright infringement, have been resolved,” he said. “The Legislative Council has returned to a rational and pragmatic track, providing stronger support for the government to govern by the law and fully implement government policies that are beneficial to Hong Kong's long-term development.” Zheng added that he believes officials will listen to different opinions and constructive criticism, for the good of Hong Kong. Roundtable lawmaker Michael Tien said legislators were told to reflect people's voices. "Constructive criticism, meaning criticisms together with suggested solutions or alternatives, is what Mr Zheng is referring to, and what I think the central government is looking for from the Hong Kong legislature," Tien told reporters after attending the luncheon. "Because many of us represent the public, we know a lot more about what common citizens think on any daily controversial issue much quicker and much more comprehensively than the government. And it is our job to reflect those criticisms." Lawmaker Martin Liao said he hopes there will be more such exchanges. "We expect this kind of relationship will continue," he said. "I think the biggest takeaway would be the several understandings that Mr Zheng had shared with us. Basically it's concerned with the economic development and social welfare of the entire Hong Kong society." Legco president Andrew Leung said the legislature has been working to promote exchanges by organising regular antechamber meetings, adding that he will lead a delegation of lawmakers to Fujian for an inspection trip on July 15.