Govt Mulls Voting At Border Checkpoints

Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Secretary Erick Tsang said on Wednesday the government is studying the idea of allowing Hong Kong people who live on the mainland to vote in December's Legco election at border control points to get around travel restrictions.

Tsang told lawmakers at a Legislative Council meeting that officials are trying to see as soon as possible whether it is feasible for eligible voters to cast their ballots at the checkpoints, without the need to return to Hong Kong.

"We're hoping to see if we can arrange for people returning to the mainland after voting to be exempt from quarantine. We'll analyse the issue and talk to stakeholders," he said.

But the official said the government will not set up polling stations on the mainland until legal and technical issues are resolved.

Tsang added that officials plan to set up a polling station at the quarantine camp in Penny's Bay.

Meanwhile, he said the authorities have set aside HK$16 million to publicise electoral reform, and a new campaign will be launched early next month leading up to the Legco polls.

Tsang reminded people not to incite others to cast blank votes or not vote at all.