LCQ4: Proposals to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law

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Following is a question by the Hon Martin Lee and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mrs Regina Ip, in the Legislative Council today (January 15):

Question:

Regarding the Consultation Document on the Proposals to Implement Article 23 of the Basic Law, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) of the number of submissions received during the consultation period, how they are classified and determined as supporting or opposing the enactment of laws, and when a detailed compendium of the submissions will be published;

(b) whether it will set out every undertaking made by the officials concerned on various occasions during the consultation period, in respect of the consultation concerning the enactment of laws, interpretation of the provisions and enforcement of the enacted law;

(d) whether it will consult the Central People's Government ("CPG") again on the enactment of laws; if so, whether CPG's advice will be made public?

Reply:

Madam President,

Regarding the proposals to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law:

(a) The Government received more than 90 000 submissions during the public consultation period. Whilst a significant number of submissions clearly indicated their stance on the proposals, many made specific comments or suggestions. A compendium of the submissions will be published in due course.

(b) and (c) The Government will take into consideration all the views expressed during the public consultation in preparing the Bill to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law. The Legislative Council and the public will have ample opportunities to examine the provisions in the Bill when it is published in due course.

(d) The Government will consult the Central People's Government on matters of principle where necessary. The detailed preparation and drafting of the Bill is however the sole responsibility of the HKSAR Government.

End/Wednesday, January 15, 2003

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