Lack Of Quorum Disrupts Legco's Budget Debate

The full meeting of the Legislative Council was adjourned on Wednesday because the required number of lawmakers were not present.

It is the first adjournment of the meeting since Legco rules were changed in 2017, which gives Legco President, Andrew Leung, the power to decide when to convene the meeting again.

Lawmakers were debating this year's budget on Wednesday afternoon, when People Power lawmaker Ray Chan called for a quorum count.

When it was found there were only 32 lawmakers present, the house was adjourned. The minimum number required is 35.

Liberal Party leader Felix Chung said that under new Legco rules, delaying tactics won't work.

"Since we have changed the rules of procedures, the president can start the meeting anytime. Filibustering in this way will not work anymore," he said.