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The Basic Law was drafted as part of the Sino-British Joint Declaration covering Hong Kong after its handover to China on July 1, 1997. The declaration stated Hong Kong would be governed under the principle of ‘one country, two systems’ and continue to enjoy its capitalist system and individual freedoms for 50 years after the handover.
Despite rapid start to scrutiny of proposed Article 23 security legislation by lawmakers, there should be no compromise on making changes and improvements.
City urged to draw on its “super roles” to raise capital, as well as to connect with and support investors and help the country become a financial powerhouse
Concerns of various sectors of Hong Kong society need to be addressed and suggested improvements to legislation considered.
Insiders reveal calculated strategy to catch foreign powers off guard and curb impact of potential sanctions or smear campaigns ahead of passing of Article 23 bill.
They worry confidential corporate information could potentially be linked to state secrets, placing auditors in difficult situation.
Secretary for Security Chris Tang says handing chief executive powers to make subsidiary legislation is long-standing practice in common law systems.
Catholic diocese addresses concerns that religious figures may breach law by failing to report acts or thoughts endangering national security.
One of the most notable clauses empowers chief executive in council to make subsidiary legislation ‘for the needs of’ safeguarding national security.
If bill clears House Committee on Friday, lawmakers will be able to resume second reading and possibly pass legislation at full Legco meeting.
Insider says US-funded Radio Free Asia has four full-time and up to four part-time staff; some to move to Taiwan or Washington, some to lose jobs.
Committee finishes review of Safeguarding National Security Bill and lawmakers to meet on Thursday to examine modified clauses.
Australian judge Anthony Gleeson, 85, ‘did not wish’ to renew his tenure as an overseas non-permanent justice on the apex court, citing his age, Hong Kong’s judiciary says.
Removing requirement to wait six months after issuance of court warrant before identifying suspect as absconder may mark first possible amendment to bill since gazetting.
Police would be able to apply for an extension of a detention period for up to 14 days from the courts.
Secretary for Security Chris Tang says total 16-day detention period gives police sufficient time to gather evidence and also preserves human rights.
Ronny Tong, member of the Executive Council, says simply holding on to a copy of the tabloid newspaper does not breach the domestic security bill.
At least 40 per cent of home-grown national security legislation has gone through scrutiny by third day of discussions.
Possessing seditious publications will be incorporated into a new Safeguarding National Security Ordinance under proposed legislation.
The Post follows the deliberations in the legislature as lawmakers go through the bill clause by clause.
While acknowledging need to enact new legislation as a constitutional obligation, some experts also raised concerns about potential abuse of power.
Bill also grants new powers to police that will affect rights of people arrested under proposed domestic security legislation.
Lawmakers echo concerns of business chambers and professional bodies that criteria for external forces are ‘broad’ and ‘vague’.
Penalty takes aim at social unrest in 2019 during which major infrastructure such as MTR stations, the airport, roads and traffic lights were vandalised.
Person with seditious intention is defined as one inciting hatred or disaffection on Hong Kong’s public officers or offices of mainland’s central authorities in city.
Among changes in draft bill, those convicted of endangering national security, or those on trial for such offences, will not be eligible for early release.
Tracking the lead-up to the formulation of the bill, which has reached Legco for review.
Ding Xuexiang says fast-tracked approval of domestic national security law will help city shift primary focus to economic development, enhance people’s livelihoods.
Tam Tak-chi, former vice-chairman of now-disbanded People Power party, argued his chanting of slogans did not equate to having an intention to incite violence.
Chief Executive John Lee says he has written to the Legislative Council president, telling him enactment of law is a constitutional responsibility of the entire city.