The Government respects the right of the people to express their views on the implementation method for universal suffrage for the Chief Executive, however, proposals for constitutional development should comply with the law.
The Government made the statement tonight in response to media enquiries about the "results" of the so-called "civil referendum".
It said the Government reiterated earlier that the so-called "civil referendum" does not exist in the Basic Law and domestic legislation, and has no legal effect.
On the "civic nomination" proposal, the statement said it is unlikely to be adopted in view of the controversies relating to the legal, political and operational aspects of it.
On the question of "international standards" of universal suffrage, the statement said reference can be drawn from the principles mentioned in certain international covenants for implementing universal suffrage. However, it should be understood that internationally there is no single prescribed electoral or political system.
It said the United Nations recognises that different jurisdictions should develop their own systems that suit their unique cultural, historical, political and socio-economic backgrounds.
The statement added the Government will consult the public on the specific proposals by the end of this year, and appealed to the community to be rational and pragmatic in forging a consensus, on the basis of the Basic Law and the interpretations and decisions of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress.
