Leung tells forum that Hong Kong must unite to overcome obstacles

Hong Kong's problems need to be solved through uniting people and not by chanting slogans, beleaguered Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying said last night.

Leung faced another grilling as he attended a third forum, in Kwai Tsing Theatre, before his maiden policy address next month.

In his two-minute opening remarks, Leung reiterated the government would start selling a new batch of subsidised housing next week. "I hope that property prices will stabilise soon," he said.

The government was also concerned about the elderly and the environment, he said.

Audience members raised suggestions on such issues as universal retirement protection, better public health care and education. Several asked Leung how he would mend rifts in society and end his integrity crisis.

"Hong Kong needs to be united, in order to solve the problems that have arisen in society. Problems cannot be solved by chanting slogans," Leung said.