Pamphlets explain security legislation
The Security Bureau has published 90,000 copies of two pamphlets in Chinese to help clear up 'misconceptions' surrounding the consultation paper on the proposed anti-subversion law.
The move follows complaints by Secretary for Security Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee that the media has not reported her clarifications over the controversial proposals.
The two pamphlets - entitled 'Introduction' and 'Facts and Misconceptions' - state that the government has the responsibility to legislate against subversive acts as provided by the Basic Law.
The bureau says that it is now the right time to legislate.
'We can handle the issue rationally and peacefully at a time when there are no threats endangering national security,' it says.
It dismisses suggestions that secession and subversion are political offences, saying they should be considered criminal acts as they involve the use of violence and illegal means to endanger national security.
'These offences are similar to the existing offence of treason. These are serious criminal offences and not political offences that suppress freedom of speech and thoughts.'
The bureau clarifies that staging protests that disturb public order is not a form of sedition. It adds that police powers to enter premises during emergencies are contained in existing legislation.
The pamphlets stress that mainland legislation will not be extended to Hong Kong.
The bureau also dismisses the misconception that doing business with Taiwanese people will constitute assisting a public enemy in the offence of treason.
The pamphlets can now be obtained from the District Offices.
