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HONG KONG (AP) — Student leaders of the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong haven't yet responded to an offer by the territory's leader to hold talks aimed at defusing a week of massive street demonstrations.
Hong Kong's chief executive made the offer as he refused demands from the protesters that he resign. His comments came just before a deadline set by the protesters, who have threatened to expand their actions.
Many of the protesters are expressing disappointment with the proposal, saying the offer includes no details. One woman said the talks should take place immediately -- because after a couple of days, the crowds will have thinned. She says, "That's why the government just keeps us waiting."
A pro-democracy group that has joined the protests is welcoming the offer of talks, but it's insisting that Hong Kong's leader should still resign.
Earlier in the day, police and protesters were bracing for additional confrontations. Police brought in supplies of tear gas and other riot gear, while protesters prepared face masks and goggles.
Police have warned of serious consequences if the protesters try to surround or occupy government buildings, as they have threatened to do.
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156-a-12-(Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, at news conference)-"seven years ago"-Hong Kong's leader Leung Chun-ying says protesters need to abide by the laws. (2 Oct 2014)
<<CUT *156 (10/02/14)££ 00:12 "seven years ago"
125-a-10-(Ivan Au, democracy activist, in AP interview)-"just so many"-When we talked to democracy activist Ivan Au out in the crowd he was worried that police might be getting ready to use tear gas -- he refers to it as a CS grenade.' ((note accent)) (2 Oct 2014)
<<CUT *125 (10/02/14)££ 00:10 "just so many"
APPHOTO XWM112: Student protesters sit on the main road outside the government complex where Hong Kong's Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying's office is located, Friday, Oct. 3, 2014 in Hong Kong. Hong Kong's embattled leader offered Thursday to hold talks between his government and pro-democracy protesters, but said he will not accept their demand that he resign. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E) (2 Oct 2014)
<<APPHOTO XWM112 (10/02/14)££
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