Bias on China advisers hit

CHINA was criticised yesterday for shutting the door on the Democratic Party in selecting advisers on district affairs.

Eric Wong Chung-ki, the secretary-general of the Association for Democracy and People's Livelihood (ADPL), said the move showed China was not open enough in its consultation with Hong Kong.

Mr Wong was the only member of the 'small l' liberal camp appointed in the second batch of district affairs advisers yesterday.

Eastern District Board member Tony Chan Tak-wai of the Hong Kong Democratic Foundation, known for good relations with the pro-China camp in his district, was among those appointed.

Speaking after receiving a certificate of appointment from Xinhua (New China News Agency) chief Zhou Nan, Mr Wong said: 'I cannot agree with the arrangement [to exclude the Democrats].

'No matter whether it is the appointment of district advisers, Hong Kong affairs advisers, or the Preliminary Working Committee and Preparatory Committee members, China should include people of different views, including the Democratic Party.