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The Government has published two new leaflets to further explain the National Security (Legislative Provisions) Bill, a Government spokesman said today (June 30).

"Both leaflets drive home the message that the fundamental rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents will be preserved under the proposed legislation. We also endeavour to reassure the public that our proposals to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law (BL23) are more liberal than existing laws.

"The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has a constitutional duty to enact laws on our own to protect national security," the spokesman said.

Both leaflets, printed in English and Chinese, can now be obtained from the Government Publications Centre at Queensway Government Offices, Central; and the Information Services Department's Marketing Office on 4/F, Murray Building, Garden Road, Hong Kong.

They will also be available for collection later at the Public Enquiry Service Centres of the District Offices and the Housing Authority's shopping malls.

In addition, the leaflets can be downloaded from the Government's dedicated website on proposals to implement BL23 at www.basiclaw23.gov.hk. Other leaflets on BL23 and related information can also be accessed at the website.

End/Monday, June 30, 2003

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