Patten is on a tour to promote his book East And West which is highly critical of the Chinese leadership.

During his four-day stay the former governor is scheduled to hold a private meeting on Friday with Hong Kong's Beijing-picked leader, Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa .

He is also to meet leading pro-democracy legislators at a private dinner hosted by a local businessman.

Patten has a packed book signing and interview schedule, including a session in the popular Harry Ramsden's fish and chip restaurant.

The former governor -- nicknamed `Fatty Patten' here for his love of food -- was a regular customer at the restaurant.

Patten is due to hold a press conference later on Wednesday.