Official says it is unnecessary after in-depth scrutiny
The government's refusal to add a 'sunset clause' that would force it to review the controversial covert surveillance bill after it has been enacted may lead democrats to vote against it next month.
Legislators Margaret Ng Ngoi-yee, from the Civic Party, and James To Kun-sun, of the Democratic Party, yesterday put forward 300 amendments to the Interception of Communications and Surveillance Bill, and called on the government to add the sunset clause to ensure the public would be consulted and to change any parts that may violate people's rights.
Democratic Party chairman Lee Wing-tat warned his party might vote against the bill if it failed to protect human rights.
'The amendments are to ensure human rights are defended. If these amendments are successfully approved, then we will support the government to pass the bill,' Mr Lee said.
Civic Party legislator Ronny Tong Ka-wah said he intended to vote against the bill if none of the amendments was approved.
'We hope the legislation can be reviewed before 2008 when we will run for re-election. It will be less troublesome and time-consuming if the same group of people review this complicated issue.'
