Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive John Lee announced on Tuesday that the majority of opinions gathered during the ongoing public consultation for the legislation of Article 23 support the process. As the consultation period is set to conclude next week, Lee emphasized the need to push forward with the legislation at full speed. During a press conference before the Executive Council meeting, Lee stated, “We can do it one day earlier; we should do it one day early.”
Responding to questions about the Legislative Council’s schedule, which suggests the earliest session convening on March 13, Lee expressed confidence in expediting the legislation process for Article 23. He stressed the importance of fulfilling constitutional responsibilities promptly, aligning with both the National Security Law (NSL) and the National People’s Congress decision, which underscore the urgency of Article 23 legislation.
Lee expects the Legislative Council to meet its responsibilities and, while respecting its deliberative process, hopes it will conscientiously perform its duties. Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, is set to conduct a fact-finding mission in Hong Kong starting Thursday, focusing on soliciting views on the proposed Article 23 legislation.
The new law, titled the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, aims to comprehensively address national security risks and complement the existing NSL for Hong Kong. The consultation period is scheduled to conclude on February 28. Lee emphasized that the legislation is vital for ensuring the safety of every person in Hong Kong and providing legal means to protect against potential harm.