Force needed to counteract liberals, say CRC supporters
MEMBERS of the committee preparing the political party to evolve from the Co-operative Resources Centre said they joined because they believed Hongkong needed a force to counteract the liberal camp.
A member and chairman of Sincere Company, Mr Selwyn Mar, said Hongkong needed co-operation and not confrontation with China and this message had to be put across to the public.
''I agree with the CRC's belief that convergence with the post-1997 administration is vital to the territory,'' he said.
Member Mr Andrew Leung Kwan-yan said Hongkong should have different parties representing different sectors of society.
He said he found the CRC's policies moderate and acceptable.
Both Mr Mar and Mr Leung said although they had joined the committee, they had no ambition to be an active political figure.
The future party pledges to adopt a ''rational and pragmatic approach'' to safeguard Hongkong's prosperity and stability, according to a paper prepared by the CRC.
But it does not mention if more democracy is needed for the territory.
The paper, entitled A New Vision for a Better Future, spells out five principal objectives: To safeguard the people of Hongkong by protecting their interests and upholding individual rights and liberties; Maintain and improve the quality of life of the people of Hongkong; Preserve and enhance the social, economic, legal and political systems that have created Hongkong's prosperity and stability; Ensure a smooth transfer of sovereignty in 1997 and a smooth transition through 1997; and Participate in the governing of Hongkong in the achievement of those objectives.
''We believe these values are the necessary ingredients for social stability and economic strength, which are preconditions for the people's livelihood, a high quality of life and Hongkong's continued success,'' the paper said.
The party intends to set up regional offices managed by a central office, which in turn will be managed by the party's executive committee.
A team will provide research support for various units of the party.
A media relation office will be established to promote the party's image and to co-ordinate the dissemination of information and comments.
The paper said the party's finance would be supported by donations from supporters and subscriptions of members.
''The party will also be running fund-raising activities all year round to raise part of the requisite fund,'' the paper said.
The party's finance would be managed by a committee headed by a strong treasurer, the paper said.
FULL COMMITTEE LIST Mr Ronald Arculli, solicitor and CRC legislator. Mr Chan Yim-kwong, insurance company agency manager. Mr Moses Cheng Mo-chi, solicitor and CRC legislator. Mr Raymond Cheng Shu-shing, executive director of watchmaking company. Mr Stephen Cheong Kam-chuen, businessman and CRC legislator. Mr Ambrose Cheung Wing-sum, director of Lai Sun Developmen
