Honorary consuls could seek election in the first legislature next year, it emerged yesterday.
'Salaried representatives' of other countries cannot run, but honorary consuls are not prohibited from becoming candidates, principal assistant secretary for constitutional affairs Ho Chung-kee told the provisional legislature's bills committee.
There was strong opposition from members.
Seats for foreign passport holders in the legislature will be limited to 12 specified functional constituencies next year.
Independent Andrew Wong Wang-fat said an honorary consul represents the country giving the title, even though the post is unpaid.
Ronald Arculli of the Liberal Party said: 'If a country creates a few non-official representatives apart from the official one, we can't just let them sit in our legislature.' The clause excludes employees such as drivers and clerical staff for foreign consulates.
