“We have to let go of the past,” Chan stresses. “We can’t keep reminiscing about the past and how we got to where we are today. Hong Kong is no longer just a business city. We have to start thinking [of ourselves] as a part of China. That will help us advance much quicker.”

Over the years, the public’s demand for universal suffrage and the central government’s reluctance to speed up the process has led to mounting tension in Hong Kong. But Chan believes that until the democratic camp proves to Beijing they are willing to compromise on phasing in the implementation of universal suffrage, the goal of attaining it by 2012 is “a little ambitious”.

“They missed their chance when the government offered a phased-in arrangement previously,” Chan states. “It’s quite clear the mainland prefers a progressive formula to a one-time arrangement. But since the opposition has stood firm on their ground, nothing has happened.” The best way forward, Chan believes, is to consider Beijing’s recommendation.
 


“I think China’s real concern is if we elect someone who isn’t able to work with them. The last thing we want is for someone to be picked by the committee, only to be rejected by the central government. That will put us in a severe constitutional crisis.” Mr Chan and other prominent Hong Kongers are featured in the The Peak Hong Kong’s Special Issue commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the Handover.

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