Amid criticism and warnings about showing favouritism to election candidates, Tung Chee-hwa last night avoided contacts with Federation of Trade Unions (FTU) hopefuls, but then spoke glowingly of the powerful union.
The Chief Executive took a side entrance to the annual May Day reception at the City Hall restaurant, sparing him direct contact with FTU leaders, including Tam Yiu-chung and Chan Yuen-han.
The FTU's chairman, Cheng Yiu-tong, who opted not to run in the polls on May 24, led Mr Tung to the stage by a circuitous route behind the backdrop.
In another departure from previous practice, the FTU's six vice-chairmen, including Mr Tam and Ms Chan, were not invited on stage to present a toast.
Mr Tung left immediately after making his speech and offering a toast - a stay of less than 20 minutes.
In his speech to the event, marking the FTU's 50-year anniversary and Friday's International Labour Day, Mr Tung expressed, on behalf of the SAR Government, gratitude to the FTU's 'silent' and 'tremendous contribution' to Hong Kong.
His comments were received with loud applause.