Tsang's reform package proposed doubling the size of the Election Committee that will select the chief executive in 2007 to 1,600 and would have added 10 seats to Legco - five geographically elected and five functional constituency seats chosen by all the district councillors.

However, following a day of heated debate in the Legislative Council, Tsang's proposals were thwarted by 24 pro-democracy lawmakers who voted against both parts of the package. The measures, which needed the support of two-thirds of the 60 members, had the backing of 34 pro-Beijing lawmakers.

Pro-democracy campaigners want to see fewer direct political appointments influenced by Beijing and are demanding a clear timetable on the adoption of universal suffrage in the territory.

"Today our political progress has come to a halt. The 24 who voted down the proposals went against the wishes of the people of Hong Kong," Chief Secretary for Administration Rafael Hui announced.

Meanwhile, Tsang who labelled his opponents "horrifying animals," stated that the government will not put forward any new proposals for 2007-2008.

"We have lost an opportunity to take a significant step towards full democracy," he said.