Former security chief Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee yesterday said she would pursue further studies in the United States but declined to comment on her political future.
She said she would be accompanied by her daughter on her trip to America.
'I will stay a while and return next year,' Mrs Ip said, while declining to disclose her chosen subject or the university she is planning to attend. 'I hope to study something new.'
While refusing to comment on political affairs and the government's future handling of the National Security Bill, Mrs Ip admitted that she had undergone a difficult period when handling the controversial legislation under Article 23 of the Basic Law.
'Article 23 legislation is the most difficult [task] ... there was immense pressure. That was my low point, a huge work burden ... a lonely situation. I felt discouraged at times but did not give up,' Mrs Ip said.
'Some citizens may disagree, but I sincerely believe that there is no problem with this law.'