HKSAR Chief Sets out Legislative Directions on Basic Law Article 23

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Tuesday, January 28, 2003

HKSAR Chief Sets out Legislative Directions on Basic Law Article 23

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Hong Kong's Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa Tuesday said the majority of the Hong Kong residents agreed to safeguard national security, and meanwhile his government would not let the public's freedoms compromised.

Tung made the remarks at a media session the outcome of the consultation exercise on Article 23 of the Basic Law.

"We know that the majority of the public agree that we have a responsibility to safeguard our national security. They also realize the need to legislate under Article 23 of the Basic Law," said Tung.

"However, some members of the public have expressed doubts and worries about certain legislative proposals. In short, all issues,major or otherwise, have been thoroughly and enthusiastically discussed during the three-month consultation period," added Tung.

"Press freedom is the foundation for Hong Kong's success. We must safeguard it. The media have expressed worries during the consultation exercise. We must allay their worries because we have no intention of undermining press freedom. Nor would we allow any damage to press freedom. Since the media are concerned about the possession of seditious publications, for instance, we have proposed to abolish the offense," said Tung.

According to Tung, in order to safeguard freedom of the press and free flow of information, the government will limit the definition of "unauthorized access" to protected information to access through criminal means such as hacking, theft or bribery.

"I have full confidence that after the law is enacted, the public will find that their freedoms, including the freedom of speech, press, procession and assembly etc. which they currently enjoy, will remain fully protected," said Tung.

"We will complete the drafting work in accordance with the above directions as soon as possible. I would like to emphasize though during this drafting period, we will continue to listen to the views of various sectors. And indeed we will continue to do so throughout the legislative process," concluded Tung.

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