The Secretary for Security, Mr John Lee, together with the heads of six disciplined services departments, namely the Commissioner of Police, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Hermes Tang; the Director of Immigration, Mr Au Ka-wang; the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Woo Ying-ming; the Director of Fire Services, Mr Joseph Leung; and the Controller of the Government Flying Service, Captain Wu Wai-hung, welcomes and fully supports the amended Annex I "Method for the Selection of the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" and Annex II "Method for the Formation of the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Its Voting Procedures" to the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of the People's Republic of China today (March 30) approved by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC), which ensure "patriots administering Hong Kong" and improve the electoral system of the HKSAR.

     Mr Lee said that he will lead the disciplinary forces to continue to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, and ensure the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. The heads of six disciplined services departments said that they will stand in solidarity and attend to their duties steadfastly to safeguard national security as well as maintain the law and order, stability and security of the Hong Kong community.

     The amendments further enhance the broad representation of Hong Kong's electoral system and improve the quality of democracy. The amendments approved by the NPCSC are sensible, reasonable, constitutional and legal, plugging the loopholes of Hong Kong's current electoral system. They are the keys to solving the current problems in Hong Kong and also an important principle for the development of Hong Kong's democracy. The amendments implement the broad requirements of "patriots administering Hong Kong" in accordance with the actual situation in Hong Kong.

     Mr Lee said, "It is a well-intended decision by the Central Authorities to improve Hong Kong's electoral system following the enactment of the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR (the National Security Law). The amendments specify clearly the regulations of the electoral system and provide a solid and powerful constitutional guarantee, enhancing the governance of the HKSAR Government, fostering the cohesion and unity of society and addressing the deep-seated problems. Hong Kong will be able to vigorously develop on a solid basis in the future."

     The Hong Kong National Security Law safeguards national security while improving the electoral system ensures political stability and safety, and only in doing so can Hong Kong society enjoy comprehensive safeguarding of security. The Security Bureau and the six disciplinary forces fully support the amendments by the NPCSC, and will stand united and spare no effort in safeguarding national security to ensure Hong Kong's prosperity and long-term stability and order.

Ends/Tuesday, March 30, 2021
Issued at HKT 18:38

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