THE provisional legislature will not vote on motions by clapping, says its president Rita Fan Hsu Lai-tai. Mrs Fan said yesterday that the method the Chief Executive used in the National People's Congress selection panel meeting to endorse resolutions was inappropriate for the interim body. Criticism against the adoption of the mainland political culture was triggered last week when Tung Chee-hwa directed the 424-member panel to pass two motions by clapping. 'Clapping is not a way for the provisional legislature to endorse our motions. Hong Kong does not need to follow the Chinese political culture,' she said. Mrs Fan, who had vowed to bring about a new culture in the provisional legislature, believed Mr Tung asked the panel to clap simply because he wanted to save time. She said the controversy aroused proved Hong Kong had freedom of speech. Mrs Fan, a selection panel member and a contender, rejected criticism that the NPC selection was a 'small-circle game'. No candidates had treated her to a meal, seeking her vote, she said. Activists charged with disturbing the provisional legislature meetings have demanded that Mrs Fan and Secretary for Justice Elsie Leung Oi-sie appear in court for their defence. Mrs Fan said she would respect the court procedures and fulfil her civil obligation.
