Politicians from across the political spectrum last night called on the government to reveal more specifics from Tung Chee-hwa's policy address, as most agreed the blueprint lacked details.
But the split between the pro-government parties and pro-democracy camp was intense as the Democrats condemned the document as an 'empty paper', while the Democratic Alliance for Betterment of Hong Kong and the Liberal Party said it was heading in the right direction.
The Democratic Party criticised the speech as an 'empty paper' that had disappointed the people. Chairman Yeung Sum said it had failed to rebuild confidence and had provided nothing concrete to improve the economy.
'This policy address is the worst among others in past years. It was the most empty in content. Hong Kong's biggest problem is not external but the bad governance of Tung. He cannot see to people's needs and has left the people,' Dr Yeung said.
He said proposed cuts in spending meant social services would be reduced, which would seriously hurt the under-privileged. He also criticised Mr Tung for failing to make plans to hasten the pace of democracy.
Democrat Albert Ho Chun-yan said: 'His speech was just like a lecture filled with nothing but slogans.'