ExCo Non-official Members welcome passage of Safeguarding National Security Bill
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The Non-official Members of the Executive Council (ExCo Non-official Members) today (March 19) issued the following statement:
ExCo Non-official Members welcomed the passage of the Safeguarding National Security Bill (the Bill) by the Legislative Council (LegCo) today, fulfilling the constitutional duty of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) in fully implementing the Article 23 of the Basic Law. The passed Bill achieves convergence, compatibility and complementarity with the Hong Kong National Security Law, improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms of the HKSAR in safeguarding national security, forming a complete and effective legal regime for safeguarding national security, and plugging the national security loopholes.
ExCo Non-official Members extended their gratitude to the HKSAR Government for its well-coordinated efforts in taking forward the legislative work, working at full steam in drafting the Bill and introducing it into the LegCo for scrutiny. During the LegCo's scrutiny of the Bill, the Security Bureau and the Department of Justice gave detailed explanations on the content of the Bill and promptly responded to enquiries from LegCo Members. ExCo Non-official Members also expressed their gratitude to the LegCo for its full co-operation and to LegCo Members for their efforts in racing against time to scrutinise the Bill. They have provided valuable comments on the Bill which helped perfect the legislation. The entire legislative process was of high efficiency and quality, fully demonstrating the determination of the executive authorities and the legislature of the HKSAR in completing the legislative work as soon as possible, ensuring the effective safeguard of national security at an earlier time.
ExCo Non-official Members stressed that legislating for Article 23 of the Basic Law is the consensus of the community and represents the aspirations of the people of Hong Kong. They believe that with the passage of the Bill, Hong Kong will be able to focus on developing the economy and improving people's livelihood, maintain its long-term prosperity and stability, and ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle.
Ends/Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Issued at HKT 20:52
Issued at HKT 20:52
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