SJ addresses more than 1 000 teachers on Basic Law and national security (with photos)
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Ms Cheng first pointed out that the Constitution is the fundamental law of the state with the highest legal effect. In accordance with the Constitution, the National People's Congress (NPC) is the highest organ of state power and has the authority to introduce laws and other legal instruments, including making decisions. The decision on the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the adoption of the Basic Law was made by the NPC in accordance with the Constitution on April 4, 1990.
Ms Cheng further said that Article 1 of the Basic Law stipulates that the HKSAR is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, and "one country" is thereby the basis of "two systems". The Basic Law also guarantees that the courts of the HKSAR shall exercise judicial power independently, and criminal prosecutions of the Department of Justice are free from any interference.
Ms Cheng explained that should a gap in national security emerge in Hong Kong making it difficult for the HKSAR to complete on its own the legislation for safeguarding national security in the foreseeable future, the NPC has the right and duty under the Constitution and the Basic Law to introduce the National Security Law. This is to improve at the national level the legal framework and enforcement mechanisms for national security for the HKSAR, closing national security loopholes by effectively preventing, suppressing and imposing punishment for any act that endangers national security.
Stressing that political security is fundamental to national security, Ms Cheng highlighted the NPC's decision, taking into account the actual situation of Hong Kong, to improve the electoral system of the HKSAR on a solid legal basis, fully demonstrating broad representation, political tolerance, balanced participation and fair competition, thereby promoting the realisation of good governance in Hong Kong, which is conducive to the steadfast and successful implementation of "one country, two systems".
Ms Cheng said that she expects teachers to impart correct knowledge on the Constitution, the Basic Law and the National Security Law to the students. Lastly, she encouraged all voters to cast their votes in the Legislative Council election on December 19, with a view to building a brighter future for Hong Kong together.
Ends/Monday, December 13, 2021
Issued at HKT 16:05
Issued at HKT 16:05
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