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 if the CCBL is to commission a research company to conduct the opinion poll, it is likely that the company will be accused of being manipulated by the CCBL. Thus, the fairness, scientific nature and objectivity of the public opinion poll will also be queried.

5.5.2.7 The current financial position of the CCBL is different from that a few months ago. It is indicated in the CCBL's financial report: "As a result of the 'June 4 incident', the CCBL has to make adjustments to its original work plan. For instance, the extension of the consultation period will result in a corresponding increase in expenditure, and the publicity promos and posters already produced all need to be replaced by new ones. Hence, the budget for the relevant expense items also needs to be adjusted accordingly." It is also stated in that report: "If estimated according to the current financial position and income and expenditure level of the CCBL,..., the remaining balance of the Fund should just be enough for the CCBL to operate until its dissolution."

6. Conclusion

On whether or not the CCBL should conduct a public opinion poll on the Basic Law (Draft), there are many contradictory views among members of the public and CCBL members. After thorough discussions on the issue, the CCBL finally decided to adopt last year's practice i.e. not to conduct a public opinion poll to gauge the opinions of the general public. This decision does not mean that the CCBL has denied the role of public opinion polls. It only indicates that it is not appropriate for the CCBL to conduct a public opinion poll as a means of consulting the public on the Basic Law. As regards those public opinion polls conducted on the Basic Law by individuals outside the CCBL or by other organizations, the CCBL will pass the results of the polls on to the Drafting Committee for reference without giving any comment or explanation.

* If there is any discrepancy between the Chinese and the English versions, the Chinese version shall prevail.