SCED speaks on draft Decision on establishing and improving legal system and enforcement mechanisms for HKSAR to safeguard national security
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Reporter: Many business chambers have expressed concern over the proposed national security law? What's your response to them? Are you worried about a "brain drain" because many talents may want to leave Hong Kong because of the uncertainties?
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development: I think the draft Decision to be made by the NPC (National People's Congress) is one that is needed for Hong Kong. It has a very specific purpose focusing on the stopping of any acts of secession, subversion, terrorist activities as well as interference by foreign forces. We all notice that Hong Kong has undergone a very difficult time in recent years, particularly in 2019. In my meeting with many chambers and international interlocutors, while they expressed concern about Hong Kong in general, they also expressed their concern on whether Hong Kong will continue to be a safe city, which is a very important element in supporting international businesses in Hong Kong. I hope the draft Decision can pass and the enactment of the relevant law in Hong Kong could help to ease their mind that Hong Kong would be able to cope with the situation, to avoid social unrest, particularly those arising from activities that amount to terrorist activities. We have seen those activities recently emerging in Hong Kong. The seizures of lethal weapons are also cause for concern by the Government.
I believe we need to have a fuller articulation and explanation to the international chambers, making sure that they understand better about the draft Decision. I believe with fuller understanding, they would restore their confidence in Hong Kong. Because we do believe that the law, which is an essential part of upholding national security and stability, would also be conducive to the business environment in Hong Kong as an international city.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Monday, May 25, 2020
Issued at HKT 16:59
Issued at HKT 16:59
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