Public Back Election Changes, Says Liaison Office

The changes that Beijing is planning to Hong Kong's electoral system have "popular support" the liaison office said on Friday – just a couple of hours after the dramatic overhaul was announced.

Few details about what is in store have been revealed, other than there will be changes to the size, composition and method for forming the chief executive election committee, and that the committee will get new powers so it can be involved in nominating all Legco election candidates – and choose some of the winners itself.

In a statement, the liaison office said the changes are completely in line with the Chinese constitution and the Basic Law and have a solid legal and political basis.

It said the "improvements" are a clear indication of the central government's commitment to safeguarding "One Country, Two Systems".

The office said mainland officials will listen to public views on the matter, but people should know that Beijing’s constitutional authority over Hong Kong cannot be challenged.

Article 68 of the Basic Law states that the method for forming the Legislative Council shall be specified in light of the actual situation in Hong Kong, and that the ultimate aim is for all members to be returned by universal suffrage.