Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa held meetings Monday with legislators and community leaders in an effort to strengthen his personal contact with the public. He pledged to enhance communication and listen to views on the government.

Meeting legislators from the pro-democracy camp, Tung said he had very "useful and important" discussions with them on matters of public concern, in particular Article 23 legislation and constitutional review.

Although the purpose of the meeting was to listen to views, Tung said he nevertheless made a preliminary response to both topics to the legislators present.

"For Article 23 legislation, the next round of consultation will be a very comprehensive one to win maximum support and understanding of the community," he said.

The government has not set a timetable for the legislative process, he added.

On constitutional review, he said it must be a thorough one.

"We shall listen carefully to public views with regard to timing of the consultation, and make sure there will be plenty of time for the public to discuss and be consulted," he said.

Tung admitted that there were voices calling for his resignation during the meeting but that did not dampen the atmosphere because it was an important meeting for him to listen to their views.

Democratic Party Vice-Chairman Albert Ho revealed that during the meeting they demanded there be no pre-requisite on the content and timing of the legislation.

Earlier yesterday, Tung met with leaders of various communities and associations on a wide range of topics. He pledged that meetings will continue with the grassroots to hear their concerns.

(China Daily July 29, 2003)