The sole delegate to the country's top legislature, Tam Yiu-chung, said Hong Kong needs to do more to tackle deep-rooted conflicts and integrate into the country’s overall development.

In his latest interview with the Bauhinia Magazine, Tam said while the city’s deep-rooted social conflicts had seriously undermined development, it is encouraging to note that Chief Executive John Lee’s maiden Policy Address had addressed people’s aspirations and the needs of the different sectors.

However, he pointed out that if the SAR is to fully integrate into national development, it shouldn’t only involve the economy.

“We should also focus on areas such as politics and the judiciary,” he said.

Politically, the National People’s Congress Standing Committee member said Hong Kong needs to strengthen its national education to enhance people’s sense of identity so that they would proactively uphold the country’s governance system.

He added that officials should plan ahead when they devise new strategies, and consider how they could integrate with the country’s policies.

Tam also noted that Hong Kong should foster closer legal ties with the mainland by devising a mechanism that could facilitate negotiations and greater connectivity.

That, he said, would be conducive to helping businesses set up shop across the border.