Editorial | Clarity still required after consultation on Hong Kong’s Article 23 concludes
- Concerns of various sectors of Hong Kong society need to be addressed and suggested improvements to legislation considered
The consultation on proposed new national security laws for Hong Kong lasted only 30 days, but generated much feedback and food for thought. There were more than 13,000 submissions, with an overwhelming majority expressing positive views about the laws, according to the Security Bureau.
There is, generally, agreement that the city has a constitutional duty to pass the legislation, under Article 23 of the Basic Law, and needs to update existing laws to meet today’s challenges.
But there were also concerns, from foreign business chambers, diplomats, lawyers and journalists among others, about the clarity of certain legal definitions, and the potential impact on freedoms protected by the Basic Law and Hong Kong’s role as an international city. Officials should carefully consider the many constructive suggestions made for improvements.
The new laws cover treason, insurrection, theft of state secrets and espionage, sabotage and external interference. They will operate alongside the national security law passed in 2020.
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One of the key responses, expressed widely, is a need for greater clarity.
The proposals set out broad principles. Detail is needed in the bill so that everyone has a clear understanding of what constitutes an offence.