The propaganda war over plans to tighten control of public protests and political groups began in earnest yesterday when the Government published a rebuttal of the controversial proposals.
The 23-page commentary claimed legislative changes published by the Chief Executive-designate's Office on Wednesday would significantly increase official powers to restrict freedom of assembly and association.
The Government claimed the existing Public Order and Societies ordinances already 'struck a balance between the protection of civil liberties and the need to maintain social order'.
They were also consistent with the Basic Law and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
'There has been no sign of any deterioration of law and order,' the document said.
There was no 'practicable requirement for changes'.