In regard to the approval by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC) of the amended Annex I to the Basic Law on Method for the Selection of the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Annex II to the Basic Law on Method for the Formation of the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and its Voting Procedures today (March 30), the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, made the following statement:
 
     I strongly support and warmly welcome the amended Annex I and Annex II to the Basic Law approved by the NPCSC. It ensures that the electoral system of the HKSAR can progress with wider representation and cope better with the actual situation of Hong Kong, with a view to putting Hong Kong’s political structure back on a firmer and more promising footing.

     Through improving the electoral system of the HKSAR, the fundamental principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong" can be fully implemented; national sovereignty, security and development interests fully protected; the HKSAR's constitutional order established according to the Constitution and the Basic Law fully safeguarded. It will also restore order from chaos and ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of "one country, two systems" and the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. Political security is the foundation of national security. Without political security, Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability can never be achieved.

     Improving the electoral system, ensuring "patriots administering Hong Kong" and safeguarding the overall interests of society are conducive to the stable development of Hong Kong’s democracy.

     As the electoral system is improved, Hong Kong can find its way out of a political swamp and create a stable social environment conducive to good governance, thereby enabling the HKSAR Government to focus on developing the economy, improving people's livelihoods, and fundamentally resolving complex and deep-seated social issues and conflicts.

     I believe that the executive authorities and the legislature can better interact and co-operate with each other, put aside our differences for the common good of the community, develop a cordial, close and constructive working relationship, and work smoothly together on a people-oriented policy vision to propel Hong Kong forward.

     The HKSAR Government will render full co-operation and strive to complete the amendments to the relevant local electoral laws in accordance with the amended Annex I and Annex II to the Basic Law by introducing a bill to the Legislative Council as early as practicable.

     As the Chief Secretary for Administration, I will, together with the governing team and the civil service, make all-out efforts in explaining the amendments to the community.

Ends/Tuesday, March 30, 2021
Issued at HKT 13:37

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