Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Raymond Tam says he has heard no news the Central Government will soon allow pan-democrats to apply for the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong & Macau Residents - also known at the Home Visit Permit or Home Return Permit - but he would be happy to see it happen.
Speaking to reporters today Mr Tam said being a facilitator to arrange for Legislative Councillors to visit the Mainland has been the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s long-term position in recent years.
It is to allow legislators to have regular contact with senior Central Government officials responsible for Hong Kong affairs and let them see the latest developments on the Mainland.
Mr Tam said both the pan-democratic and pro-establishment camps expressed their hope to get the permits during the meeting with the National People's Congress Standing Committee Chairman in May.
The Chief Executive has been playing a positive role in the follow-up actions, Mr Tam added.
