China slams UK over Article 23 comments
China has hit out at UK comments on plans by Hong Kong to enact Basic Law Article 23 national security legislation. British Foreign Secretary David Cameron earlier called on the SAR to reconsider the proposals, which he said were in violation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration. Cameron also said London has a responsibility to ensure that people's rights and freedoms are maintained. On Thursday, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Cameron's comments amounted to interference in China's internal affairs. She said Article 23 legislation will safeguard the rights of Hong Kong people in accordance with the law. The Commissioner’s Office of the Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong also weighed in, calling Cameron's remarks "irresponsible" and "vicious smearing". "The UK does not have sovereign power, governing power or supervision power over the post-handover Hong Kong," a spokesperson said. The Security Bureau also condemned Cameron's remarks. Secretary for Security Chris Tang said Article 23 legislation went through extensive local consultation, and that most people are in favour of enacting it. (Additional reporting by AFP)_____________________________
Last updated: 2024-02-29 HKT 19:02 