Beijing praises Hong Kong’s biggest lawyer group for neutrality during passage of Article 23 law
- Law Society president Chan Chak-ming says Beijing pleased with group’s use of simple and plain language to explain legislation to local and overseas audiences
- He backs independent judiciary to ensure balance between safeguarding national security and protecting human rights
Chan Chak-ming, president of the Law Society, said on Friday that Beijing officials were particularly pleased with the professional body’s use of simple and plain language to explain the legislation to local and overseas audiences
“The society is confident that safeguarding national security and protecting human rights and freedoms is not a zero-sum game. And with an independent judiciary, [both] could be able to strike a balance,” Chan said at a press conference, as his delegation wrapped up a four-day visit to the capital.
Chan also revealed central government officials they met had asked the body to continue to uphold the principle of the rule of law in Hong Kong and make contributions to the steadfast and successful implementation of the “one country, two systems” governing principle.
Hong Kong lawmakers unanimously passed the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance last month, fast-tracking the legislation required under Article 23 of the city’s mini-constitution, the Basic Law.
