Update | "The central government's policy … is consistent and clear-cut. It will continue to support Hong Kong"

Premier Li Keqiang yesterday promised continued support for Hong Kong amid "comprehensive deepening" of reforms on the mainland, but he evaded questions about the city's electoral reform and autonomy.

The premier said Hong Kong had kept its competitive edge and gave a reassurance that the central government's policy towards the city remained "consistent and clear-cut". His remarks at the annual press conference after the plenary sessions of the national legislature and top advisory body came amid growing fears about the city's competitiveness and challenges from other cities.

"Hong Kong has held its own and maintained prosperity despite volatility in the global economy. That shows it has kept its competitive edge," Li said.

In reply to a Hong Kong reporter's question on whether the central government would come up with fresh measures to boost the city's economy, Li said: "We will do whatever is conducive to the prosperity of Hong Kong."

But when asked if he was confident the city could achieve universal suffrage, agree on nominating methods for chief executive candidates and maintain its autonomy, Li just smiled and waved to the reporters.

To a question on the city's competitiveness, the premier said: "The central government's policy … is consistent and clear-cut. [It] will continue to support Hong Kong in maintaining and activating its status as an international financial, trading and shipping centre."