Chief secretary denies lobbying
Chief Secretary Henry Tang Ying-yen yesterday rejected a claim he had canvassed on behalf of a Legco election hopeful by using government resources.
The allegation involved an anonymous complaint sent to a Chinese-language newspaper.
Mr Tang was said to have lobbied for Lam Tai-fai during a lunch with leaders of the Chinese Manufacturers' Association at his official residence.
Mr Lam, who was a top executive in Mr Tang's family knitwear business, is seeking to oust Lui Ming-wah, the association representative for the Legco industrial seat.
Mr Tang stressed he had not discussed election issues during what he called a normal liaison.
'If my attendance in such social activities is seen as electioneering, then I think I won't be able to attend any social functions in future.'
When asked about the anonymous letter, he said: 'I have no idea about the conflict inside the association.
'I think the media may often receive letters like this one. I believe you would have your own judgment about how much of it is true and how much is not. I believe you can tell [if this is the case].'
Mr Lui said he did not believe Mr Tang lobbied for Mr Lam during the lunch.
Paul Yin Tek-shing, Chinese Manufacturers' Association president, said Mr Tang had not lobbied for Mr Lam during the function. 'I believe some people are just dissatisfied with Mr Tang and turned the event into something against him,' he said.
