Hong Kong Urges Dialogue After Clashes 07/15 06:16

   HONG KONG (AP) -- Hong Kong lawmakers from both sides of the political 
spectrum have urged action in response to violent scuffles between police and 
protesters.

   Both pro-democracy legislators and ones who support China's Communist 
Party-led central government held news conferences Monday to address the 
clashes.

   The demonstration Sunday in Hong Kong's Sha Tin district was peaceful for 
most of the day, but fights broke out when police started clearing streets 
after nightfall. Some protesters retreated into a shopping complex where they 
and police hit each other with clubs and umbrellas.

   Pro-Beijing lawmaker Starry Lee said "both sides have to come out and 
establish communication channels."

   Pro-democracy legislator Claudia Mo called the current tumult "the biggest 
political and governance crisis Hong Kong has ever faced."


(KA)