Opposition lawmakers wooed to keep reform on track; 5 votes needed

Hong Kong's chief executive and constitutional affairs officials have stepped up attempts to gain the support of a handful of opposition lawmakers needed to ensure that the city's constitutional reform process stays on track.

The electoral reform package, expected to be voted on by the Legislative Council on June 17, requires two-thirds support or 47 out of 70 votes to pass. Pro-government parties hold 43 seats to the opposition's 27.

The government is appealing for five moderate opposition members to cross the floor with their votes, with Legislative Council President Jasper Tsang Yok-sing pledging to resign from his role to help shore up the pro-government vote.