Expressions of opinion are only intended to be outlawed under new subversion and sedition legislation if they amount to an incitement of criminal conduct, an informed source revealed yesterday in an attempt to calm fears over the controversial plans.
The source said it was 'almost inconceivable at this stage' that the mere stating of an opinion, or reporting of someone else's views, would be criminalised.
But he added: 'Of course, some forms of expression will be offences, as at present. If, now, I incite you to go and murder someone, these words clearly are an offence.'
His comments to the South China Morning Post came as 31 non-government organisations issued a joint statement expressing their concern that the legislation would cause 'white terror' and pose a serious threat to basic freedoms. However, he said that the laws would not necessarily expand upon the current legal situation and encroach upon human rights.
'There is not going to be any new element introduced which specifically targets expression,' he added.
Under Article 23 of the Basic Law, Hong Kong is required to pass laws against acts of treason, secession, sedition, subversion and the theft of state secrets.