Paul Chan Mo-po turns to Bible quotes to defend integrity

To act justly and to love mercy: Paul Chan Mo-po probably said it to remind himself of his guiding principle as much as to court public sympathy on the fourth day of a farmland row that has called his integrity into question.

The Secretary for Development yesterday invoked words from the Bible, as well as his school anthem, a day before lawmakers were to move a motion requesting his resignation.

He was determined to serve the public, he told a meeting of the Legislative Council development panel that included representatives of interest groups.

"I joined Legco in 2008, then joined the government just because I wanted to focus myself on public service. Today, I still follow the principle of a biblical verse - to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God," the Christian said, citing from the book of Micah.

Chan thanked a Kwu Tung villager for giving him a copy of the New Testament at the meeting.

The villager, Chung Xiaoqing, opposed government development plans for a new town in her area. "I hope he will be reminded not to lie any more," Chung said.