Tung keeps his focus on business

The chief executive's discussions with the pro-Beijing camp reflect his belief in an economic fix for his political woes

Unlike his meeting with pro-democracy legislators yesterday, Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa's earlier discussions with members of the pro-Beijing camp were all business.

Property developers came in for specific attention, with pledges of support from the chief executive to address their concerns. They were among about 100 pro-government business leaders and professionals who met Mr Tung at the China Resources Building in Wan Chai, where the focus of the talks was the economy.

During the two-hour meeting, participants said the chief executive talked about the closer economic partnership arrangement (Cepa), property prices, tourism and education.

Mr Tung reportedly stressed in the closed-door meeting that the mainland's backing gave Hong Kong a strong competitive edge. This, he said, would become clearer with the implementation next year of Cepa.

Stanley Ho Hung-sun, president of the Real Estate Developers Association, said Mr Tung had assured him that the voices of property tycoons would be heard.

'He [Mr Tung] believes property prices are very important, because property is a pillar of the economy. He told me again to rest assured,' Mr Ho said.