The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

     Following is the transcript of remarks by the President of the Legislative Council (LegCo), Mr Andrew Leung, on the deliberation of the National People's Congress (NPC) on the draft decision on establishing the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to safeguard national security at a media briefing at the LegCo Complex today (May 22):

     The annual session of NPC commences today. One of the agenda items is to deliberate the resolution put forward by the NPC Standing Committee on establishing and improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the HKSAR to safeguard national security.

     National security is the bedrock underpinning the well-being of people of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Safeguarding stability of the whole country and Hong Kong as its Special Administrative Region will facilitate the economic development and improvement of people's livelihood. In light of the latest development and actual situation, the NPC exercises its powers enshrined in the Constitution of PRC to establish the relevant legal system. This is in line with the interest of the country and Hong Kong society as a whole. As the President of LegCo, I respect, understand and support this initiative.

     The HKSAR is an inalienable part of the PRC. Hong Kong has the constitutional responsibility to enact laws in accordance with Article 23 of the Basic Law. The Government should commence the relevant work at an appropriate time. The successful implementation of "One Country, Two Systems" can ensure the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. This is also the wish shared by Hong Kong people.

Ends/Friday, May 22, 2020
Issued at HKT 13:20

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