Mr. Eric Li: Madam President, the Honourable Andrew WONG whom I hold in high esteem yesterday described Members of the Provisional Legislative Council as members of a family. I counted and found that there were 38 different surnames, four political parties as well as other factions in this Chamber. In debating politics, we have a clear-cut stand and will never give precedence to one another out of courtesy. If we are members of a family, the relationship of the family members is somewhat too complicated. As a matter of fact, Hong Kong and China are now members of the same family after the reunification. It may be more appropriate to call Hong Kong people "fellow townsfolk".

Nevertheless, no matter whether we come from the same family or the same town, the most important thing is that we are working together towards a common goal. Members of the same family can make different dreams on the same bed. But for the 60 Members who come from different sectors and different political parties, we can make the same dream in this Chamber. Madam president, I am not saying that Members' debates are so boring that they drive us to sleep, although we are not necessarily well-versed in our political skill. What I am trying to say is that each one of us has a sincere dream and that is to play a positive role at this historical moment for the return of sovereignty and the smooth transition of Hong Kong. We often argue in this Chamber, but it seems that we are on the same path in facing sensational criticisms and satire from the outside. If Hong Kong people fail to look at this part of Hong Kong history in "strict isolation", they should at least recognize the fact that the Provisional Legislative Council has done a lot of pragmatic work for the smooth transition of Hong Kong. It can be said that we have been working systematically, efficiently and progressively to realize our dream under the leadership of the President.

The success of the Provisional Legislative Council can be attributed to the hard work of all Members and the Secretariat staff who have worked tirelessly. The President has also been working with meticulous attention in chairing the meetings. I would also like to thank the government officials for their very detailed explanation. My thanks also go to members of the press, who have been following us closely to try to find something to write about us. In particular, I would like to mention those members of the public who frequently staged protests outside the Legislative Council Building. Although we felt very much aggrieved by their actions. I think we should thank them because without the shouts and cries, our work would not be so colourful. It is also through them that the whole world know the freedom of expression in Hong Kong will never come to an end and that our political circle is vibrant and dynamic.

Madam President, I do not know how to praise a person in chemical or medical terms. Nor have I managed to commend a person with numerical data. But I think the greatest test for the work of the Provisional Legislative Council is the politicians' magnanimity. I would like to quote the following lines from the ancient people for mutual encouragement: "When the water of the tide is limpid, I wash my tassels. When the water of the tide is turbid, I wash my feet". In my opinion, all Member, be them appointed Members of the former Legislative Council, elected Members, or "temporary" legislators of the Provisional Legislative Council, should act dutifully and think and act in one and the same way. This is because, as legislators, what we can finally show the public is the political achievements we have fought for and made in this Council. After today, we will be biding farewell to each other. But I hope all of us can retreat to a clear conscience when we think of what we have said and done in this Council when we wake up deep into the night.

Madam President, I wish a smooth formation for the first legislature to sustain and carry forward our parliamentary culture. With these remarks, I support the motion.

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