Election Commission issues election campaign guidelines

A string of election campaign guidelines related to the establishment of election headquarters and media reporting were discussed today by the Legislative Assembly Election Commission. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Commission Chairman Mr Fong Man Chong said that each group may establish an electoral headquarter and up to six branches. A promotional billboard of 2.5 square metres may also be set up outside the headquarters and branches. The billboard should conform with safety regulations and other promotional products have to be dismantled before promotional period ends at midnight on 23 September. On media reporting, Mr Fong said the Basic Law stipulated that the media enjoy freedom of press and expression, and urged the media to report fairly and equally on each candidate. The Election Commission will hold a draw among the direct and indirect groups on Friday to determine the use of 14 public promotional spots and broadcasting time on television and radio. Meanwhile, Mr Fong said a group has been warned for for having used supportive wordings on a leaflet before the promotional period.