Exco members back Article 23 proposals
All non-official members of the Executive Council on Tuesday said they firmly support the government's legislative proposals on Basic Law Article 23 national security legislation. In a statement, they said the SAR must fulfil its constitutional duty to enact Article 23 as soon as possible, adding that there is a consensus in society that the legislative work should be completed.  "We must seize the opportunity to legislate as soon as possible in order to effectively respond to and prevent risks and threats that endanger national security," the statement read. "As such, we can go all out to boost the economy and strive for development and work together to ensure Hong Kong's long-term prosperity, stability and the well-being of citizens." The chief executive's advisory body added that a consultation paper for the proposed legislation is detailed, and it is appropriate to give the public one month to submit their views. Federation of Trade Unions lawmaker Bill Tang also called the one-month consultation appropriate. "We (conduct) the consultation under a very strong social consensus, and the information in this document is very fruitful," he said.