Govt launches Article 23 public consultation
The government on Tuesday launched a public consultation on enacting Basic Law Article 23 national security legislation. In making the announcement, Chief Executive John Lee said Article 23 legislation must be enacted as soon as possible because of the national security risks the SAR faces. "After the colour revolution and black riot in 2019, we all understand the importance of national security, and that risks to national security are serious, real and can be unexpected," he said. "Also, the geopolitical situation is getting more complicated. We must remedy this shortcoming as soon as possible." Lee also said enacting Article 23 national security legislation is a constitutional duty that Hong Kong has not fulfilled in the past 26 years, since its return to the motherland in 1997. He said the legislative principles include safeguarding the country's sovereignty, safety and development interests, as well as protecting people's rights and freedoms. Lee said the government proposes enacting a new ordinance, as well as revising some of the city's existing laws. The implementation of Article 23 legislation takes into consideration existing laws in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions, as well as the SAR's own situation, he added. "We are confident, we are proud and we stand high because the principles we adopt conform with the international standard, and we're doing it in exactly the same way as other countries are doing. "We will be respecting and safeguarding the freedoms and rights lawfully enjoyed by the people of Hong Kong, by the organisations (operating) in Hong Kong." Lee also called it a "defensive law". "No businessman wants to see their investment, their business, be disrupted or destroyed by violence or in a war zone," the CE said. "I think the new law aims to create a stable and safe environment so that when people attack us, then we will be protected. And this is a law to tell people not to attack us. It is, in a way, a defensive law." Members of the public have until February 28 to submit their views regarding the proposed legislation. Lee described the consultation arrangements as "appropriate", saying Hong Kong people already have a consensus on the issue and there's the need to plug the security loophole as soon as possible.  He also said there are no provisions in the legislation that would send suspects to the mainland to stand trial. Officials will brief lawmakers on the proposal in the afternoon._____________________________
Last updated: 2024-01-30 HKT 12:41 