Update | Thousands of protesters demand answers on HKTV decision
Leung declines to address rally on government decision to reject HKTV
Tens of thousands of black-clad protesters occupied the grounds of government headquarters last night demanding an explanation of the decision on free-to-air television licences - but Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying said this would only be given in court.
Leung refused to address the public rally on why Hong Kong Television Network (HKTV) was denied a licence while two others were approved.
"There are two upcoming judicial reviews, so I cannot elaborate on the rationale at this stage," Leung said.
He was referring to a challenge filed by Philip Li Koi-hop, chairman of fringe political group the People's Opposition Party and one promised by HKTV chairman Ricky Wong Wai-kay.
Li said later he would not go ahead with his review but ATV, facing competition from the new players, is now considering one.
Leung spoke as the number of protesters swelled in a week when former HKTV staff had camped outside the headquarters in Admiralty after a march last Sunday drew 36,000 to 80,000, people according to estimates by police and organisers.
Last night Civic Square, Tim Mei Avenue, Tamar Park and the Legco carpark were full.