香港の英字新聞「SCMP(South China Morning Post/サウス・チャイナ・モーニング・ポスト/南华早报/南華早報)」は2024年03月19日に、香港政府のリーダー李家超(Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu/ジョン・リー・カチュウ)は、21年前に抗議活動に直面して最初の試みが棚上げされた後、市が法案を可決し、土曜日から法案が施行されると述べた。

セキュリティ責任者のクリス・タン(Security chief Chris Tang)は「将来を見据えた」法律の必要性を強調する一方、香港大学のサイモン・ヤング(Simon Young of HKU)は、法務部門がLegcoの議論に関与していないのは「残念だ」と述べた。

新しい法律は、5つのカテゴリーに分類される39の犯罪に及ぶ。

このストーリーは、読者への公共サービスとして無料で全文公開された。

香港の議員らは国内国家安全法案を全会一致で可決し、20年以上前の大規模な抗議活動によって棚上げされた憲法上の義務を果たした。
国家安全保障条例は、反逆罪、国家安全保障条例の5つのカテゴリーに分類される39の犯罪に及ぶ。 反乱、反乱と不満の扇動、および扇動的な意図を持った行為。 妨害行為。 外部干渉。 そして国家機密の窃盗とスパイ活動。

国家反逆、反乱、中国軍の反乱への扇動、外部勢力と共謀して公共インフラを破壊する行為は、最高で終身刑に処せられる4つの犯罪である。後者は香港外に拠点を置く犯罪者にも適用される可能性がある。

市政府が公聴会を開催してから2カ月も経たないうちに、法案を速やかに法令集に記載することを目的として、火曜日初めの立法評議会はマラソン審査手続きの場となった。

法案可決に関する最新情報については、ライブブログをフォローしてください。

カホン・チャン(Kahon Chan)、ジェフィー・ラム(Jeffie Lam)、ハーベイ・コン(Harvey Kong)、リリアン・チェン(Lilian Cheng)、ナタリー・ウォン(Natalie Wong)、ウィラ・ウー(Willa Wu)、エリザベス・チャン(Elizabeth Cheung)、エミリー・ハン(Emily Hung)、ジェス・マー(Jess Ma)によるレポートである。

2024年03月19日---『国家安全保障の抜け穴』で、香港の議員らは第2読会の再開前倒し、火曜日に第23条法案を承認する見通し。

昨日から、香港は、てんやわんやの大騒ぎであった。

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10:12PM
The End
It’s a wrap
We are closing the live blog after a momentous day for Hong Kong, but look out for the wrap of all of Tuesday’s events on our website as well as related reports.

9:50PM
‘No chilling effect from new law’: justice chief
Justice Minister Paul Lam Ting-kwok says the new law does not intend to create any chilling effect or hinder any normal activities, especially with the outside world.

“The purpose of enacting Article 23 of the Basic Law is to allow Hong Kong to focus on its development … to reinforce our status as an international city and attract people to study, live and work here, we need to guarantee the freedom of speech, information, free flow of capital, and enhance all kinds of exchanges with the outside world,” he says in a social media post

“There is no reason to shoot ourselves in the foot.”

9:32PM
Milestone for ‘firewall’: liaison office
A spokesman for the central government liaison office in Hong Kong has described the passage of the law as a milestone since the 1997 handover, signifying the fulfilment of the city’s constitutional duty, as well as the establishment of a “firewall” for its long-term safety and stability.

Affirming the law as “aligning with public opinion, ensuring safety and safeguarding development”, the spokesman says a key factor to the “widespread social consensus” during the legislative process was the “stark comparison” in conditions before and after the Beijing-imposed national security law in 2020, which made Hongkongers understand the inseparable relationship between safety and development.

The spokesman then says the city will be able to focus on economic development and grasp opportunities in national development.

“Reality will prove that after plugging all shortcomings on national security, a safe, stable and prosperous Hong Kong will definitely flourish in capital and talent, radiating charisma,” the spokesman says.

8:55PM
‘Greater protection for business environment’: developers
The Real Estate Developers Association of Hong Kong has welcomed the passage of the law, saying it will contribute to a stable and secure business environment and allow industry to focus on economic development and promote the city’s overall progress.

“The rule of law and a stable social environment are the cornerstones of Hong Kong’s success and economic development, the Article 23 legislation provides greater protection for the city’s business environment, further enhancing and consolidating its status as an international financial centre.”

8:50PM
More preferential policies for ‘precious gem’
The Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office has issued a statement after the passage of the law, saying it has laid a solid foundation for safeguarding national security, allowing the city to thrive, achieving high-quality development and a high level of openness.

“During the legislative process, Hong Kong generally expressed a strong desire to strive for economic development after the bill passed. This wish must be realised and can be realised,” it says.

Beijing’s top office overseeing Hong Kong affairs also adds that as the central government has always regarded the city as “a precious gem”, more preferential policies will come in supporting its development.

8:46PM
Overseas parliamentarians, public figures slam law
A group of 75 parliamentarians and public figures from around the world, including the US, Canada, UK, EU and South Korea, have issued a joint statement expressing “grave concern” over the passage of the legislation.

Chris Patten, the city’s last British governor, says the law is “another large nail in the coffin of human rights and the rule of law in Hong Kong and a further disgraceful breach of the Joint Declaration”.

Other signatories include US senators Marco Rubio and Dan Sullivan, former UK Conservative party leader Iain Duncan Smith, and European Parliament vice-president Jan-Christoph Oetjen.

8:44PM
Fugitive’s daughter-in-law ‘not in the least worried about law’
Lawmaker Eunice Yung Hoi-yan, daughter-in-law of wanted activist Elmer Yuan Gong-yi, says she is not in the least worried that the law will have any impact on her and her family as it has clearly defined clauses and undergone a detailed vetting.

“I believe my husband can handle the relationship with his father well, and he is very responsible for his family,” Yung says.

“Of course, the best way is that if there are any concerns, go seek legal advice. If there is anything suspicious or clearly violating the law, go report it to police. That is the best way to protect ourselves.”

8:32PM
Henderson Land first to comment as tycoons weigh in
Brothers Peter Lee Ka-kit and Martin Lee Ka-shing, chairmen and managing directors of Henderson Land Group, are the first tycoons to express support for the law.

Peter Lee says investors and enterprises will enjoy a safer and more stable business environment under the law, believing the city will focus on economic development after the enactment.

Martin Lee praises the law for establishing a “solid legal barricade” around Hong Kong, adding that it will help the city’s economy develop under a stable environment, enable society to focus on economic growth and citizens’ welfare and make the city a better home.

8:21PM
Those who threaten sanctions ‘will regret it’: Regina Ip
Asked by the Post about possible sanctions from the West or a downgraded travel advisory for the city, Martin Liao, who chaired the bills committee, says any retaliatory measures are outside his considerations.

“We only do the right thing and this is the right thing to do,” he says. “Whatever will come will come. This is not my consideration.”

Legco president Andrew Leung also points out that other countries also “do everything” to protect national security, adding: “Why can’t we?”

He adds: “Be it downgrade, be it whatever, we don’t mind.

“Hong Kong is a beautiful place to do business and travel, if they don’t do it here, they miss their chances.”

Exco convenor Regina Ip also dismisses such concerns.

“I don’t see why any country will want to downgrade the travel advisory,” she says.

“Hong Kong is a very appealing city, people who take action against us or downgrade us or threaten sanctions against us, they will regret it, and we are not daunted by these threats.”

7:52PM
Article 23 law complements Beijing-imposed NSL: John Lee
John Lee says the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020 has a narrower scope compared with the new legislation, as the former was designed to target the 2019 unrest.

The espionage offence is one of the overlapping areas between the two pieces of legislation, according to Lee, who says the offence has not been fully covered by the Beijing-imposed law.

He notes the domestic legislation will also improve procedures for court proceedings and handling of absconders.

7:52PM
Hong Kong took 26 years – US 21 days on Patriot Act: Lee
John Lee says there was a strong urgency to pass the law because national security threats could catch them off guard, pointing to the 2019 social unrest and complicated geopolitical situation.

“We used 30 days for the consultation and the Legislative Council used 12 days to debate the national security ordinance, this fully shows the urgency of the ordinance,” Lee says.

“In reality, different countries and places target their own national security risks, they will also speedily pass laws to deal with them.”

The city leader cites the example of the United States’ Patriot Act, which took a day each to pass through the House of Representatives and the Senate, adding that the bill was only handed to Congress 21 days after 9/11.

“After 9/11, the American government submitted a draft bill 21 days after the terrorist attack to safeguard their national security, our Article 23 legislation in Hong Kong took 26 years,” he says.

7:25PM
Law is protection against invaders: John Lee
Speaking to the press afterwards, John Lee says the law is a defensive one that equips the city with “a stronger door and lock” and protects it against invaders.

“[The legislation] is needed to guard against people who invade our home,” he says. “We need to have such tools which are effective in guarding against ‘black violence’ and colour revolution … we no longer need to worry about people destroying public infrastructure with the new law.”

He says stability and safety are the cornerstones of prosperity, expressing confidence that the new law will only make Hong Kong more attractive to companies and investment.

Lee also says Hong Kong had once “walked on the wrong path” before Beijing imposed the national security law.

“We must correctly understand that there must be one country before two systems, and the two systems must not be used to resist one country,” he says.

7:20PM
Photo time
John Lee, his cabinet and all lawmakers take a group picture in the chamber for what they call a “historic moment”.

7:19PM
Gratitude to security and justice ministers: John Lee
The chief executive thanks the Security Bureau and Department of Justice for their efforts during the public consultation, drafting and explanation of the bill and rebuttal against smearing in the past months, saying they often had phone call meetings until 2am or 3am.

“They are the heroes in my heart and the guardians of the SAR,” he says.

“I sincerely thank [them] and [I] am proud of their serious attitude, enthusiasm and professional competence.”

7:16PM
Lee says new law fulfils three goals
Chief Executive John Lee says the legislation fulfils three goals.

The first one is to implement the policy of one country, two systems, Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong, and a high degree of autonomy unswervingly, comprehensively and accurately.

The second is to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanism for Hong Kong to safeguard national security.

The third is to prevent and punish behaviour and activities that endanger national security in accordance with the law, protect the lives of residents, and maintain the prosperity and stability of the city.

He hails the legislation’s passing as a historical moment that Hong Kong has waited for for “26 years, eight months and 19 days”.

“It is a proud moment when the Hong Kong SAR jointly writes a glorious history,” says Lee, adding that he believes the new law will keep away threats of black-cladded violence and “colour revolution”, referring to the 2019 social unrest.

7:09PM
Legco president also cast vote
Andrew Leung says he broke the usual principle and voted on the Article 23 legislation, adding that everyone has a responsibility on national security.

“As the president of the Legislative Council, I normally would not join the voting, but this is not ordinary legislation, but one that matters to the security and well being of the country and the SAR,” he says.

“So I cast my vote to witness this historic moment.”

Including Leung, 89 lawmakers voted in support of the bill.

The 90-strong legislature is one member short after Stephen Wong Yuen-shan resigned as lawmaker to lead the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit in 2022.

7:03PM
New law comes into effect on March 23: John Lee
Making a rare appearance in the legislature, city leader John Lee describes the passing of the new legislation as a historic moment.

He also announces that he will sign the law and have it gazetted on March 23, with the Article 23 legislation set to take effect from that day onwards.

The chief executive enters the chamber almost immediately after the final vote to address the lawmakers, with Legco chairman Leung citing Article 8A of the rules and procedures of the legislature that allows Lee to address the council any time he sees fit.

The chief executive usually only addresses lawmakers during his question and answer sessions, and when unveiling his annual policy blueprint.

6:54PM
Lawmakers pass Article 23 bill in unanimous landmark vote
Lawmakers complete the historic third reading of the Article 23 legislation and pass the sweeping domestic security bill unanimously 89 votes to zero after a day of discussions in the chamber.

Lawmakers pass Article 23 bill in unanimous landmark vote. Photo: Sam Tsang
Lawmakers pass Article 23 bill in unanimous landmark vote. Photo: Sam Tsang

6:49PM
‘Mixed feelings: Article 23 is my newborn baby’
Before the bill’s third reading is put to a vote, security chief Chris Tang likens its passage to his “newborn baby”.

He says he has mixed feelings seeing his baby coming into the world after so many disruptions, which he symbolises as “miscarriages”.

Apart from the efforts by the government and the legislature, Tang says the successful legislation is also due to residents realising the importance of safeguarding national security.

It does not mean the work of safeguarding national security has been completed, he stresses, adding a series of events to explain the bill is under way.

6:43PM
‘Very happy we finished this constitutional responsibility’
Regina Ip, the fourth lawmaker to speak before the passage of the bill, says the legislative process is a good demonstration of the “one country, two systems” principle.

“The central authorities gave us a chance to legislate our own security law, this is a very accommodating move and shows their understanding of Hong Kong’s unique circumstances,” she says.

“I am very happy that we finished this constitutional responsibility after around 26 years,” she adds.

Ip was the security minister when the government previously attempted to pass the law and failed in 2003.

Each party or alliance in the legislature also fields a representative to speak during the third reading in support of the legislation.

6:29PM
Tang thanks lawmakers for supporting amendments
Security minister Chris Tang addresses the chamber expressing his gratitude soon after lawmakers made comments supporting the 91 amendments proposed by the government.

He recaps some of the amendments, including one that allows the chief executive to broaden the definition of “public officials”, as well as lifting the six-month period for absconders’ status.

Tang also mentions the amendment allowing the city leader to add subsidiary legislation.

“This is the joint effort between the government and the legislature,” he says.

“This also proves that under a rational discussion platform … that we can come up and enact bills that benefit the country, the city and our residents, as well as measures that safeguard national security and the long-term prosperity of Hong Kong.”

5:08PM
City leader John Lee set to address public
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu will go to Legco and speak to the media after the legislature completes the passage of the proposed legislation, the Post has learned.

It is a rare move as the city leader normally does not visit Legco apart from for his regular question and answer sessions, and to deliver his policy address.

4:31PM
Legal experts feel less engaged in process
Professor Simon Young Ngai-man, associate law dean of the University of Hong Kong, has been monitoring the Legco scrutiny closely.

He tells the Post that it is regrettable to see the legal community was less engaged in the legislative process, and that lawmakers made fewer comments on making the law less restrictive.

“In the past, Legco might also have called for deputations from experts in the community including from the legal profession and law schools. It is regrettable that this was not done on this occasion,” he says.

“I believe legislators would have benefited from such expert input given that the issues involve technical and complex implications of criminal law, procedure and evidence.”

4:23PM
Tang briefs chamber on amendments
Chris Tang is now briefing the chamber about 91 amendments – more than 40 each for the Chinese and English versions – moved by the government, including a new clause that allows the chief executive to expand the scope of public officers by way of subsidiary legislation.

Legco will clear the amendments at the full committee stage before moving to the third reading debate.

4:13PM
Bill enters next stage after lawmakers clear second reading
Lawmakers have cleared the second reading of the bill. It now enters the full-committee stage to scrutinise the more than 40 amendments moved by the government.

A total of 88 lawmakers have spoken during the second reading debate.

4:10PM
Executive power over subsidiary legislation will ‘ensure efficiency’
Addressing public concerns over an amendment to allow the city’s leader and the Executive Council to introduce subsidiary legislation under the Article 23 bill, Tang says the executive branch needs the additional powers to ensure the law’s “effectiveness” in its implementation.

He argues the move is a “longstanding practice among common law jurisdictions”, including the UK and the US, and will be set up using an “negative vetting” approach, meaning new clauses will be enacted first and then discussed by lawmakers.

He stresses the subsidiary legislation cannot exceed the scope of the main ordinance and will be subject to vetting after enactment, rebutting “malicious hype” that future changes can be made arbitrarily.

4:08PM
Tang defends new offences under Article 23 bill
Tang’s speech seeks to address concerns over some of the offences outlined under the bill, including sedition, theft of state secrets and external interference.

The minister defends the removal of sedition being constituted by an incitement of violence.

“Anti-China forces have been stirring up hatred and beautifying violence, which will weaken residents’ law-abiding awareness and sow the seeds for colour revolution,” Tang says.

“Although these acts do not always involve violence, ignoring such seditious acts will give rise to more violent actions.”

The security chief also argues that even if organisations and private individuals fall under the definition of external force, they will not fall foul of the proposed legislation unless they use improper means to interfere with authorities.

4:06PM
Widespread public support for bill: Tang
Security minister Chris Tang says the bill received widespread support during the public consultation.

He says 98.6 per cent of the more than 13,000 pieces of opinion received expressed support or constructive criticism towards the legislation, while groups from various walks of life, from businesspeople to the youth, have voiced their support for the bill.

Tang adds that the administration has scrutinised overseas legislation to the domestic national security law to ensure the bill is up to “international standards”.

“If this is passed, it will work together with the [Beijing-imposed] national security law to form a comprehensive ecosystem for the city,” Tang says.

3:58PM
All 88 lawmakers speak in support of legislation
By 3.45pm, all 88 lawmakers – except for president Andrew Leung who normally will not speak – have addressed the chamber and expressed support for the legislation.

3:57PM
Lawmaker asks why Beijing wants bill passed swiftly
Paul Tse Wai-chun, the last lawmaker to speak in the second reading, says he remains curious as to why Beijing wishes the domestic national security law be passed at such a fast pace in an approach different from other countries.

“Our country now tends to do things in a way that does not follow the rhythm given to us by Britain, the US, or some so-called hegemons in the world … We may like it fast, we may like it slow, it is our own choice,” he says.

“I hope to have the opportunity to understand more clearly in the future why we need to work on this so quickly.”

While numerous lawmakers have compared the new law to “stricter” legislations of other common law jurisdictions, Tse finds it unnecessary to “overemphasise” such comparison as he affirms faith in Hong Kong’s common law tradition.

He hopes the legislation will help the city to “leave behind things” such as the 2014 Occupy movement and the social unrest of 2019.

Tse had suggested Hongkongers were depressed under the city’s “legalist rule” in a question and answer session with Chief Executive John Lee, who in turn said Tse’s words were “stirring up conflicts”.

3:53PM
7 lawmakers opt for English so far
As DAB lawmaker Edward Leung Hei makes his speech in the chamber, he becomes the seventh to speak in English during the second reading.

Leung dismisses possible concerns from international businesses, saying foreign chambers of commerce in the city have expressed their support for the bill, while overseas firms are used to operating under similar laws.

Lawmakers who have spoken in English have addressed international criticism of the bill, with some comparing the local law with that in other countries.

Lawmakers who have spoken in English are: Starry Lee Wai-king; New People’s Party’s Dominic Lee Tsz-king and Adrian Pedro Ho King-hong; the DAB’s Nixie Lam Lam, Holden Chow Ho-ding, Edward Leung Hei; and election committee lawmaker Lau Chi-pang.

3:51PM
Security chief thanks lawmakers for marathon review process
Ahead of the bill’s second reading going to a vote, security chief Chris Tang Ping-keung expresses his gratitude to the bills committee after its members took part in 22 back-to-back meetings spanning more than 44 hours.

He stresses the importance of the bill’s “forward-looking” nature, ensuring it can handle a range of scenarios in the future.

Authorities have also handed out 25,000 publicity materials to residents and conducted various media interviews in the past few months to explain the bill, Tang adds.

“The draft bill is not only the result of the work by all sectors of society, it is also the homework submitted by the government on its work towards pushing the legislation of Article 23,” he says.
3:43PM
Top government officials attend session
As the session reaches the 6½ hours mark, Chief Secretary Eric Chan and Financial Secretary Paul Chan enter the Legco chamber to listen to the proceedings.

More than 13 bureau chiefs have joined the session as of 3.35pm.

3:40PM
Article 23 law is ‘more lenient’ than UK, Singapore
Lawmaker Holden Chow Ho-ding cites Singapore and the United Kingdom in his speech, comparing the detention period and the public interest defence in the city’s bill with those in the two countries.

“It is crystal clear that our national security legislation is more lenient than other countries,” Chow says.

3:35PM
Lawmaker calls out ‘obvious double standards’ of foreign critics
Giving an impassioned speech in English, New People’s Party lawmaker Dominic Lee Tsz-king cites the swift passage of the United State’s Patriot Act following the 9/11 terrorist attack and its lack of media coverage as an example of double standards.

“Yet during that time, why didn’t we see Time magazine, Bloomberg News or The Economist write about the legislative process being hasty?” he asks.

“Why didn’t we see Stephen Roach having any problems with the fact that the US Congress passed the legislation with virtually no debate? Isn’t that an obvious double standard?”

His remarks refer to a commentary from the former Morgan Stanley chief economist, who claimed Hong Kong was on the decline, sparking outrage among the city’s political and business elites.

Lee says Western politicians have been hypocritical in their criticism of the Article 23 bill and have turned a blind eye to their own countries’ more severe security laws.

“If people don’t feel safe speaking their minds, how can we truly lay claim to the freedoms we so cherish? And without an assurance of safety, how can the virtue of democracy even begin to thrive?”

“Now it’s the time [for] Hong Kong to decide our fate, to unite as one, and to declare boldly to the world that we are prepared for what’s next … with our unity and this new law, we will advance with courage.”

3:28PM
Past legislative procedures ‘rigid’, Occupy leader under fire
Agricultural and fisheries sector lawmaker Steven Ho Chun-yin says external forces and some media outlets have continued to disseminate misinformation despite widespread local support for the bill, adding that lawmakers should continue to dispel rumours.

The DAB lawmaker also hits out at legal academic Benny Tai Yiu-ting, co-founder of the 2014 Occupy movement, for his “ten steps to mutual destruction” comments on how the city’s political institutions could be mobilised to veto the budget.

Ho says the comments set a precedent for the need to keep the city safe from national security threats.

Tai is now in remand alongside dozens of local opposition politicians over a conspiracy to subvert state power trial over a primary election organised ahead of the 2021 Legislative Council election. Prosecutors have accused them of conspiring to win control of the legislature and paralyse the government by indiscriminately vetoing the budget.

3:05PM
‘A balance between national security and human rights’
Lawmaker Chan Kin-por praises the legislation process as fair and balanced, saying the bill fulfils “international norms” and the local judiciary has been fair and competent in discharging its duties.

The insurance sector legislator also compares Hong Kong’s situation with Singapore’s, saying the former had been hindered by political woes after the handover while the city state had sped ahead.

Chan adds the consultation and amendment processes have eliminated all risks of inadvertent offences being created.

2:58PM
Bill to bolster security, economy: former Law Society president
Lawmaker Ambrose Lam San-keung, former president of the Hong Kong Law Society, says the Article 23 bill will lead to increased societal stability and a better economy, with investors receiving further protections.

Lam says Hong Kong’s missed opportunity to legislate on Article 23 in 2003 led to Occupy Central in 2014 and anti-government protests in 2019, causing chaos in the city.

DAB lawmaker Vincent Cheng Wing-shun says the domestic national security law is much needed in times of increasingly volatile geopolitics, adding that the “majority opinion” in the city leans towards the bill.

2:40PM
‘Teachers despised me when I gave NSL talks’
Lawmaker Junius Ho Kwan-yiu compliments the government on its efforts to swiftly pass the bill, adding the move is only a single step in ensuring national security.

Ho adds that more education on the coming law is necessary, recalling the “significant” amount of negative responses he has received while giving lectures to teachers on the topic.

“When I was giving the lecture, these teachers were playing video games, chatting among themselves and sleeping. Do they know anything about this law?” he exclaims.

“When I am there to train the trainers, they are sleeping, playing video games and even staring at me with disgust.”

The legislator also recalls teachers asking him why he was selected to give such classes, with some accusing him of making offensive remarks.

2:40PM
Witnessing history
A resident surnamed Chan, who is among the 40 people sitting in Legco’s public gallery, tells the Post she is there to witness the history.

“The legislation is very important to Hong Kong. I want to see how it comes into reality,” says the secretary, who is in her 40s, adding she doesn’t know others in the group.

2:39PM
Accountancy sector’s concerns ‘unnecessary’
Edmund Wong Chun-sek, who represents the accountancy sector, says the industry’s concerns about handling potential state secrets in their auditing work “are unnecessary” following the government’s explanation.

The DAB lawmaker acknowledges that some accountants have raised concerns about the legal risks associated with external forces, state secrets and professional confidentiality.

But accountants do not risk falling foul of the new law as they obtain material through lawful means, despite some information associated with state-owned enterprise clients being potentially classified, he says.

“Even when overseas regulatory agencies require [a firm] to submit customer-related information, the industry is already handling relevant issues in accordance with the requirements set by the country, so there will be no question of unlawful disclosure and possession of state secrets,” he says.

He says he also believes ordinary interaction with external organisations will not be an offence under the new law.

2:11PM
Residents watch reading in Legco
About 40 residents, mostly middle-aged, are seated in the public gallery for the bill reading after arriving early in the morning.

Some of them tell the media they have come on their own initiative and hope to witness history.

2:05PM
Article 23 ‘is a historical debt’
Lawmaker Wendy Hong Wen says Hong Kong owes a long “historical debt” for failing to legislate a domestic security bill for 26 years after the city’s return to Chinese sovereignty.

“This is Hong Kong’s historical debt. Debts must be repaid, and the longer you default, the greater the cost. We have seen just that in the past few years,” she says, referring to the 2019 social unrest.

The lawmaker adds there is a common consensus regarding the need to complete the legislation now.

2:04PM
Lawmaker accuses ex-colleagues of plotting with external forces
Veteran legislator Ma Fung-kwok claims that a number of former opposition lawmakers gathered with foreign politicians “somewhere near Hong Kong” about 10 years ago to “discuss how to challenge the government and create trouble”, suggesting such meetings led to the Occupy Central campaign in 2014.

He stops short of naming the lawmakers.

“I feel sad that many Hongkongers had a poor concept of our country and lack awareness of national security, and were willing to be used by foreign forces. At the same time, I also found that Hong Kong lacked a comprehensive legal regime to suppress external security threats to the country,” he says.

Ma was a member of the bills committee that scrutinised the 2003 version of the Article 23 legislation.

1:48PM
Timeline of the legislative process
Authorities kicked off the one-month consultation of the bill on January 30, unveiled its draft, and had its first reading cleared and second reading adjourned on March 8.

Lawmakers have since held marathon meetings for seven days in a row, including a weekend, to scrutinise the bill clause-by-clause and approve amendments submitted by the government on March 13.

The legislature gave the green light to waive a 12-day notice period to speed up the vetting process after a written request from the government on March 15.

1:45PM
‘True kindness must grow teeth’
Doreen Kong Yuk-foon says the city must equip itself with the rational tool of legislation to defend itself, as Hong Kong is caught up in “warfare without gunpowder”.

Kong, who is a lawyer herself, cites a series of national security laws imposed by Britain and the US to illustrate the “unmatched” toughness and broad scope of counterparts in Western countries.

“True kindness must grow teeth, or else it is merely weakness,” Kong says.

“When it comes to legal regimes related to ensuring national security, other countries are like iron and steel walls that are impenetrable to all poisons and are constantly updated and ramped up over time. Hong Kong is fragile like glass, and has been slow, hesitant and not firm enough [to respond].”

Duncan Chiu Tat-kun, who represents the IT sector, says researchers who are not working with the government can be rest assured their research materials will not be considered state secrets because there is no disclosure authority involved.

Lawmaker Gary Zhang Xinyu says that only after enacting the domestic national security law can Hong Kong fully shift its focus to economic development, which will eventually help to improve livelihoods.

1:23PM
‘Not easy’, but ‘finally here’: lawmaker on Article 23 law
Nixie Lam Lam, the second lawmaker to address the chamber in English, follows an earlier remark in the language by colleague Starry Lee Wai-king.

“Much as an international city we are, Hong Kong has been sadly also an international political battlefield,” she says.

“For 27 years we witnessed these ill-intentioned politicians from all over the world riding on our national security law to gain their little brownie points for their election campaign, or simply just want to show how tough of a man they are.”

She criticises politicians from the UK and the US over their actions towards the city, adding that she is glad to cast her vote during this “historical moment”.

“It’s definitely not easy, but we’re finally here.”

1:22PM
Cross-border data transfer to benefit
William Wong Kam-fai, who is also an engineering professor, says the national security law offers assurance for mainland authorities to give the green-light to more cross-border data transfer arrangements.

He refers to a pilot scheme launched in December between Hong Kong and the mainland to enable easier cross-border data transfers in the Greater Bay Area for certain industries.

“Only by consolidating the national security defence line can all obstacles to confidence be removed, allowing our cross-border data exchange to expand in scope and level,” Wong says.

Bills committee member Chan Siu-hung says he particularly welcomes the introduction of a clause that empowers the city leader to make subsidiary legislation, which he says makes the law more forward-looking.

1:12PM
No lunch break
Lawmakers, who are not given a collective lunch break during the reading session, take turns to go for a quick bite at Legco’s dining hall. Snacks such as deep-fried spring rolls are on offer in the antechamber room after more than four hours of speeches.

The Post has learned that dinner will also be prepared as the chamber meeting is expected to last until 9pm.

Security chief Chris Tang leaves the chamber room at 1.10pm for lunch, while justice minister Paul Lam remains inside.

1:01PM
Promote ‘high-quality’ law to world: Basic Law committee member
Priscilla Leung Mei-fun says the Article 23 legislation is a “good law” that will help to protect the lives and property of residents.

“Those who experienced the black-clad violence of 2019 know that Hong Kong without a complete national security ordinance will become lawless – it is very scary, there is danger to the lives of residents when they go to school, work and do business,” she says.

“The legislation this time can protect residents and investors even better.”

The Basic Law committee member says the better defined legal boundaries will offer clarity, and the city should declare to the whole world “with total confidence” that this is a high-quality piece of legislation that aligns with common law principles and meets international standards.

12:53PM
Half of lawmakers have spoken
By 12.43pm, almost four hours after the meeting started, 44 out of 89 lawmakers have spoken, all voicing support of the legislation. According to normal procedure, Legco president Andrew Leung is not expected to speak.

Each lawmaker in the session is allowed to speak for a maximum of 10 minutes before a vote on the motion takes place.

A committee of the whole council will then discuss whether to support the 91 amendments proposed by the government. This will be followed by the third reading debate, after which the legislation can be voted on and passed.

12:48PM
National security risks exist, so we must pass legislation: lawmaker
Education sector lawmaker Tang Fei says the participation of teachers and students in past protests is “heartbreaking” and also serves as a constant reminder of the existence of national security risks.

“There is a necessity in safeguarding national security and legislation must be made towards it as soon as possible,” he says.

Meanwhile, election committee lawmaker Chan Wing-kwong says it is the responsibility of every resident to safeguard national security and love the country.

12:35PM
‘Not yet the time to celebrate’
Tik Chi-yuen, the sole non-establishment lawmaker, makes clear his “sincere support” for the bill in his relatively short speech, adding that people have lost faith in the future amid the political turbulence of previous years.

“The completion of the Article 23 legislation is not an end, but a new beginning. It allows us to start creating a better future,” he says.

“There is more work to be done in the future, which will be more challenging than completing the Article 23 legislation, so it is not yet the time to celebrate. But we can be happy about the future ahead of us.”

Earlier, lawmaker Erik Yim Kong says national security is the biggest interest for the public, with only a safe and peaceful society able to guarantee safety and personal interests will be protected.

“Hong Kong’s base for success is its rule of law, with the legislation of Article 23 helping to strengthen this base,” he says.

12:11PM
Lawmaker reassured over ‘disclosure of information in good faith’
Michael Tien Puk-sun, like all other lawmakers speaking before him, voices support for the legislation.

He says the government’s explanations about offences related to state secrets have given him assurance that “disclosure of information in good faith” will not be caught due to the condition of “likely endangering national security”.

“The work on the Article 23 law is only starting after today’s legislation,” Tien says. “As the government and [Legco] will run proper publicity and education, the fewer opportunities to invoke the law in the future, the better.”

Kenneth Lau Ip-keung, who represents rural affairs body Heung Yee Kuk, agrees it will be “impossible” for people and organisations running ordinary business in the city to be caught under the state secret offences.

“As a legislative councillor of the seventh Legislative Council, I feel immense glory in taking up the historical responsibility that has been delayed for 27 years in this important time,” Lau says.

12:02PM
Article 23 law a ‘gate’ for national security
Lawmaker Jimmy Ng Wing-ka says that the “front door” of Hong Kong’s national security has been constantly attacked since the failure to pass Article 23 in 2003, with the 2020 Beijing-imposed national security law only acting only as a “door lock”. Ng adds that the domestic national security law will serve as a “front gate” for the country, filling any gaps left by the Beijing-imposed legislation.

Ng says that the sooner the bill becomes law, the sooner the city can focus on its continued development from stability to prosperity. The point is also made by Lee Chun-keung, speaking before Ng.

11:50AM
Students visit Legco
A group of students from the CUHKFAA Thomas Cheung School are watching the live broadcast of the resumption of the bill’s second reading from inside the Legislative Council building as part of their visit. Lawmaker Dennis Leung Tsz-wing introduces them to how the legislature functions.

11:49AM
Hongkongers’ ‘minds are at ease’ over bill
Bills committee and Exco member Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung says lawmakers have read all of the bill’s clauses, while government officials have addressed many of the business sector’s concerns with their responses.

“I believe that most people in society have already put their minds at ease about the bill,” Lam says.

“I believe that some people, including foreign individuals or organisations, will make malicious comments or make false accusations about the bill. The government will need to provide rebuttals and clarifications as soon as possible.”

Business chambers and professional groups previously raised concerns about the broad definitions of “external forces”, though officials have insisted other requirements must be satisfied before someone can be convicted under the proposed law.

11:32AM
Lawmakers, unions praise bill and efforts to safeguard national security
Election committee lawmaker So Cheung-wing says the law accurately targets behaviour that endangers national security, which protects the interests of law-abiding residents and business.

He adds that the law has gone through the necessary processes of legislation, with the process meeting requirements of local laws.

Lam Chun-sing from the Federation of Hong Kong and Kowloon Labour Unions says trade unions are obliged to end ties with international associations if the latter endanger national security.

But he stresses that working with an “external force” is not a crime as long as no improper means or intent to endanger national security are involved.

Some unions previously affiliated with the now-disbanded Confederation of Trade Unions have since joined Lam’s group.

11:21AM
Lawmaker vows to support bill, even at ‘cost of being smashed to pieces’
Connie Lam So-wai, the lawmaker for the New Territories South East constituency, expresses her “wholehearted” support for the bill, saying she will endorse it “even at the cost of having her body smashed into pieces”.

Lam, who is a certified social worker, also calls for her colleagues and others in the social welfare sector to support the legislation.

11:09AM
Lawmaker highlights ‘influencer’ role
In her speech, Joephy Chan Wing-yan from the FTU highlights her YouTube channel, saying that she has been hitting back at smears against the bill both “online and offline”. She also praises the government’s “effective” rebuttal efforts.

The newcomer to the legislature raised eyebrows during the public consultation period after posting a video criticising former Legco president Jasper Tsang Yok-sing, saying that the veteran DAB lawmaker appeared to be questioning the Article 23 law.

Steven Ho of the DAB later accused her of trying to generate traffic.

11:08AM
Lawmaker calls on US to focus on its own human rights issues
Legislator Elizabeth Quat, speaking in a personal capacity, calls on the United States to examine its own record of infringing human rights and placing limits on freedom of speech, instead of commenting on the Article 23 bill.

“They should better pay attention to the human rights of local African Americans, indigenous people and the general public,” she says.

11:05AM
Indonesian business group calls for ‘national security law consultation centres’
Tony Ho, director of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce, issues a statement calling for Hong Kong authorities to create “national security law consultation centres” to help address concerns in the business sector.

Businesses and individuals may go to those centres when they feel there are “grey areas” in their operations and receive preliminary guidance from legal experts, he suggests.

“I believe that the majority of Hong Kong people and foreign businesspeople are law-abiding in their work and lives,” Ho says.

“It is believed that this arrangement can greatly reduce doubts, increase transparency and enhance the confidence of citizens and the foreign business community in the national security law.”

11:02AM
New law expected to rein in ‘traitors’
Both Michael Luk Chung-hung and Kwok Wai-keung of the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions (FTU) say the West has been making efforts to curb China.

Luk says he expects the external interference offence in the new law will make it difficult for “traitors” and “public enemies” to collude with Western forces to disrupt order in Hong Kong.

Kwok describes the legislation not as “late homework” that has been “forgotten”, but as work that has been delayed by some people through deliberate smearing and efforts to block its progress.

He says that as a lawmaker who has experienced the “chaos” of past Legco sessions, it was an honour to finish the legislation of the Article 23 bill.

11:01AM
Nearly a quarter of lawmakers have spoken two hours in
By 11am, nearly two hours after the meeting started, 21 out of 89 lawmakers had spoken in support of the legislation.

Under the usual Legco practice, president Andrew Leung will not speak.

10:57AM
Legco shows ‘unprecedented unity’ in supporting bill
Lawmaker Stanley Ng Chau-pei says the city’s legislature has shown “unprecedented unity” in supporting the bill, fully demonstrating a new political environment there under the “patriots administering Hong Kong” principle.

The Federation of Trade Unions president also sternly condemns external forces from the US and other Western nations, as well as local anti-China and anti-Hong Kong forces, for their attempts to smear the proposed law.

“The more they meddle with the legislation, the more hypocrisy and shame they demonstrate to the world,” he says.

10:48AM
‘Touching and inspiring moment’
Lawmaker Sunny Tan says Legco’s final scrutiny of the bill is a key, touching and inspiring moment.

Tan, who is the chairman of Hong Kong Productivity Council, insists that foreign investors have continued to show “strong interests” in growing their businesses in the city, “taking concrete actions to cast a vote of confidence in Hong Kong’s business environment”.

As a representative of the textiles and garment sector, he says the industry is ready to promote the true sides of Hong Kong through its global connections.

10:48AM
Authorities must promptly rebut smears against Article 23 bill
Lawmaker Edward Lau Kwok-fan argues Bloomberg News’ earlier misreporting of consultation results as an indicator that some social media sites could be banned under the proposed law was an attempt to create “fear”.

The government must clarify the coming legislation and rebut smears in a timely manner, so residents can be confident it ensures Hong Kong’s stability and a thriving business environment, he says.

“Article 23 will only further strengthen Hong Kong’s position as an international finance and commerce centre,” Lau adds.

10:37AM
Basic Law expert praises legislative process
Lawmaker and Basic Law expert Simon Hoey Lee, says the “high-quality” legislative process of the bill is a continuation of the drafting of the city’s mini-constitution in the 1980s, as well as a demonstration of the rule of law.

The bill balances national security with individual freedoms, aligns with international standards and takes the ‘one country, two systems’ principle into account, he adds.

10:34AM
Starry Lee addresses international community
Starry Lee Wai-king, the city’s sole delegate to the national legislature’s top body, takes a moment to address the international community in English and points to various Western countries’ own national security laws as proof of its importance among states, including China.

“All in all, national security law is as important to one country as that to the other countries throughout the centuries, there is no exception for Chinese sovereignty,” she says.

Lee adds that she supports the Hong Kong government in passing the domestic national security bill “fully and firmly”.

10:29AM
Bill is ‘evidence of one country, two systems’
Jesse Shang Hailong continues the strong display of support from lawmakers for the proposed legislation, expressing his gratitude for the central authorities’ respect of the “one country, two systems” governing principle and its leaving of the legislation effort in the hands of the Hong Kong government.

“I think this Hong Kong story is the most convincing historical evidence of one country, two systems,” Sheng says. “We must continue to tell this Hong Kong story and let time and facts prove everything.”

Lai Tung Kwok, who is a former security minister, also notes the bill has been drafted under common law principles.

10:19AM
‘We finally reached this moment’
Regina Ip, Exco convenor and chairwoman of the New People’s Party, says she is very happy the city has reached the final stage of the legislative process, only weeks after a public consultation was held.

Citing the current “complicated” geopolitical situation, Ip says the legislative work of Article 23 this time “carries more responsibilities” than 21 years ago when she led the effort as security chief at the time.

“I am very happy that we finally reached this moment today and that we can complete our constitutional responsibility under Article 23 of the Basic Law,” she says, referring to the city’s mini-constitution that stipulates Hong Kong must enact its own national security law.

Ip notes that if the Article 23 legislation had been passed earlier in 2003, the city would not have faced the various political crises that emerged in 2014 and 2019.

“We would have not seen the 79-day Occupy Central movement in 2014,” she says.

“It was already some foreign forces doing something to overthrow the societal order in Hong Kong, so they could overthrow government policy. We also had the widely known violent activity in 2019 to overthrow the government and separate Hong Kong from China.”

10:16AM
Exco member takes aim at UK and US
Liberal Party leader Tommy Cheung Yu-yan says the international business community is concerned about the issues surrounding national security because the concept has not been clearly articulated in other countries.

He says Britain, for example, has included trade secrets in state secrets, and the US has sanctioned businesses in the name of national security. But both countries have not clearly defined the scope of national security, he says.

Cheung is also a member of the government’s key decision-making body, the Executive Council.

10:11AM
‘Total fallacy to say foreign investors will quit city’
Kenneth Fok Kai-kong says Hong Kong remains appealing to outside businesses, citing government statistics that more than 300 foreign firms set up outposts in the city in 2023.

“It is a total fallacy for some people to express concern that foreign investors will leave Hong Kong after the Article 23 legislation,” says Fok, who is also a deputy to the National People’s Congress, the country’s legislature.

10:06AM
Hong Kong’s No 2 official calls for lawmakers’ unanimous support
Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki, Hong Kong’s No 2 official, sends a message to all lawmakers before the resumption of the bill’s second reading on Tuesday morning, asking for their support for its smooth passage to ensure Hong Kong fulfils a task unfinished since its return to Chinese sovereignty nearly 27 years ago.

“The legislative process … showcases the collective efforts of the executive and legislative branches, and demonstrates the unwavering determination of the entire Hong Kong community to safeguard our homeland,” Chan says in the message sent to lawmakers’ private mobiles.

Upon expressing his appreciation for lawmakers’ devotion to “rigorously and efficiently” vetting the bill, Chan calls for firm support of the bill, which will sit along with the Beijing-decreed national security law to provide a safe and secure business and living environment to the city.

10:02AM
‘Working for same goal’
Lawmaker Lo Wai-kwok says the legislative exercise this time reflects how the legislature and the executive branch have worked together for the same goal, while praising the government for being receptive.

10:02AM
Police presence at Legco, despite no signs of protest
Dozens of police officers are patrolling outside the Legislative Council Complex in Admiralty, despite a lack of protesters.

An armoured vehicle, dubbed the “Sabre-toothed tiger”, is parked outside, with officers in tactical equipment standing nearby.

9:59AM
‘Law-abiding residents do not have to worry’
Finance sector lawmaker Chan Chun-ying says the existing national security law imposed on the city by Beijing only covers a certain subset of crimes, with the Article 23 bill needed to cover offences not outlined in the earlier legislation.

He emphasises the proposed domestic national security law will not affect law-abiding residents, with the suggested punishments either matching or even being lower than those outlined in similar overseas laws.

“Law-abiding residents do not have to worry about breaking the law accidentally,” he says, noting international investors can continue their activities in the city without fear of breaching the law.

Chan ends his remarks by asking authorities to step up their explanations of the coming legislation to the public, as those without a legal background will find it difficult to understand its contents.

9:57AM
‘Setting our own rules’
Carmen Kan Wai-mun, a bills committee member, notes in her speech that the administrative measures adopted in some common jurisdictions are tougher than Hong Kong’s, noting that police officers can initiate applications to extend detention of suspects in Britain.

“We may not necessarily adopt what foreign countries have, while we are setting our own rules based on our own circumstances in areas where foreign countries offer no example,” Kan says.

9:49AM
New law will rule out ‘evil deeds’ seen in 2019
Bill Tang Ka-piu of the Federation of Trade Unions says some offences under the new legislation will effectively rule out “evil deeds” observed during the anti-government protests in 2019.

He says protesters paralysing the city’s commuter railway and wrecking traffic lights may have been caught under the sabotage offence, while those doxxing police officers may have been targeted under the new offence that outlaws harassment of personnel involved in national security work.

“If the legislation had been successfully enacted in 2003, how could Hong Kong have developed so slowly? It would have been impossible for such black-cladded violence and pro-independence factions to emerge or even sprout,” Tang says.

9:46AM
Safeguarding national security is top priority
Gary Chan Hak-kan, the chairman of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, says that having a complete national security mechanism and framework is a clear requirement of the central government.

The chairman of the city’s largest political party says its stance is that the safeguarding of national security is the top priority in ensuring the long-term operation of the “one country, two systems” governing principle.

The bill has taken reference from the laws of multiple countries, such as nations which have attempted to smear the proposed domestic national security legislation, Chan adds.

“This is a historical milestone, I think all lawmakers sitting here feel honoured to have taken part in the legislation work,” he says.

9:44AM
Law will only ‘target a very few people’
Lawmaker Reverend Peter Koon Ho-ming says he is very proud to be part of the efforts in enacting the legislation which will help the development and prosperity of Hong Kong and the country.

He says the new law will only “target a very few people”, and also clearly defines all the specific offences.

Koon says the public should not have an impression that the government is rushing to turn the bill into law or arrest people, but rather only hoping to protect national security as soon as possible.

9:35AM
New bill ‘ensures judicial independence’
Maggie Chan, the first lawmaker to speak at the resumed second reading session, voices her clear support for the proposed legislation.

“As a lawyer, I believe that the bill is pragmatic, cementing the core value of Hong Kong’s rule of law, and ensures judicial independence free from interference from foreign forces. It is in line with Hong Kong’s actual circumstances,” she says.

External interference, which includes using improper means to influence the judiciary, is among the new offences covered under the bill.

The legislator also calls for more systematic education on national security in Hong Kong.

9:30AM
‘Step up explanations to ease doubts’
Speaking in a personal capacity rather than as chairman of the bills committee, Martin Liao says that after the 2019 anti-government protests, there has been a consensus on the need to introduce the domestic national security legislation.

The final draft of the Article 23 legislation has struck a “reasonable balance” between safeguarding national security and protecting human rights, he adds.

“I hope the government can step up explanations of the law, so it can ease any doubts about it,” he says.

The 2019 unrest created a consensus on the need for a domestic security law, Martin Liao says. Photo: Sam Tsang
The 2019 unrest created a consensus on the need for a domestic security law, Martin Liao says. Photo: Sam Tsang

9:25AM
‘Rule of law principles followed’
Bills committee chairman Martin Liao Cheung-kong is reporting to the full meeting the work carried out.

He says the committee has spent nearly 50 hours scrutinising the bill with more than 1,000 questions raised to the authorities, with many of the amendments proposed by lawmakers incorporated into the final bill.

He also maintains that the offences and penalties are designed based on common law and rule of law principles with references made to many other jurisdictions.

9:24AM
Lawmakers take pictures together before reading resumes
Lawmakers, including two of the city’s former security chiefs, Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee and Lai Tung-kwok, pose with hard copies of the Safeguarding National Security Bill inside the Legco chamber before the legislature resumes the bill’s second reading.

9:13AM
Legco president hails ‘quality work’
Hong Kong’s legislative is resuming its second reading of the domestic national security bill.

At the beginning of the session, Legislative Council president Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen says he feels lawmakers are “very honoured” to be part of the process, hailing the “high-quality” work of the bills committee.

“I fully agree with what the chief executive said that one day sooner legislation is completed, one day sooner national security will be protected. The residents also generally agree that the national security legislation should be completed as soon as possible,” says Leung.

The bill, which is expected to get the lawmakers’ clearance on Tuesday, only reached the Legco 11 days ago.

9:10AM
‘Historical mission’
Executive Council convenor Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee says she is back in the legislature early on Tuesday morning, looking forward to completing a “historical mission”.

Ip, who spearheaded the first legislative exercise of Article 23 in 2003, resigned after half a million people took to the streets against it, which forced the government to shelve the bill.

8:35AM
Key amendments
More than 40 amendments were submitted by the government after the bill was gazetted on March 8. One clause was designed to empower the chief executive in council to make subsidiary legislation “for the needs of” safeguarding national security.
Such legislation can be enacted first and scrutinised by the legislature later under the negative vetting procedure.

Hong Kong auditors want clarity over fears of work caught by Article 23 law
19 Mar 2024
Government officials and lawmakers discussed the Article 23 bill. Photo: Sam Tsang
The chief executive in council, through subsidiary legislation, would also be able to specify a class of people as public officers to broaden the scope of the term for incitement to disaffection or state secret offences.

A suspect could also be labelled an absconder immediately after a warrant for arrest was issued after a six-month wait requirement was removed.

Secretary for Security Chris Tang has said handing the chief executive powers to make subsidiary legislation is a long-standing practice in common law jurisdictions. Photo: Dickson Lee
Secretary for Security Chris Tang has said handing the chief executive powers to make subsidiary legislation is a long-standing practice in common law jurisdictions. Photo: Dickson Lee

8:33AM
Punishments
A maximum penalty of life imprisonment could be imposed for those convicted of treason, insurrection, incitement of a member of the Chinese armed forces to mutiny, or collusion with an external force to damage or weaken public infrastructure with an intent to endanger national security.

It was also proposed that the maximum penalty for sedition should be raised to seven years in jail – more than three times the present two-year upper limit.

8:32AM
Reminder from Beijing
Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang, the head of the Central Leading Group on Hong Kong and Macau Affairs, told city delegates who attended the “two sessions” meetings in Beijing earlier this month that enactment of Article 23 legislation should top the city’s agenda.

Ding said swift enactment would safeguard “core national interests” and shift Hong Kong’s focus to economic development. He also urged city delegates to the country’s legislature to combat concerns about the bill and refute falsehoods.

Why is Hong Kong going full speed with its Article 23 security legislation?
18 Mar 2024

8:29AM
‘Majority support’
The government said its figures showed 98.6 per cent of the 13,489 submissions made over the 30-day consultation period on the bill backed the legislation. Authorities added some of the submissions that opposed the bill came from “anti-China forces”.
The number of submissions made during the consultation exercise was a sharp drop from the more than 90,000 received in 2003, when the first attempt at a domestic national security bill was made.

Hong Kong’s political landscape, however, has shifted since Beijing imposed a national security law in 2020.

8:28AM
Main targets of offences
The proposed domestic national security law was drawn up to target five offences – treason; insurrection; theft of state secrets and espionage; sabotage endangering national security; and external interference.

8:27AM
Second attempt
The government’s first attempt to pass the controversial Article 23 legislation in 2003 failed to secure majority support in the legislature after half a million people took to the streets in protest. Authorities were criticised at the time for not holding a white bill consultation.

10:12PM
It’s a wrap
9:50PM
‘No chilling effect from new law’: justice chief
9:32PM
Milestone for ‘firewall’: liaison office
8:55PM
‘Greater protection for business environment’: developers
8:50PM
More preferential policies for ‘precious gem’
8:46PM
Overseas parliamentarians, public figures slam law
8:44PM
Fugitive’s daughter-in-law ‘not in the least worried about law’
8:32PM
Henderson Land first to comment as tycoons weigh in
8:21PM
Those who threaten sanctions ‘will regret it’: Regina Ip
7:52PM
Article 23 law complements Beijing-imposed NSL: John Lee
7:52PM
Hong Kong took 26 years – US 21 days on Patriot Act: Lee
7:25PM
Law is protection against invaders: John Lee
7:20PM
Photo time
7:19PM
Gratitude to security and justice ministers: John Lee
7:16PM
Lee says new law fulfils three goals
7:09PM
Legco president also cast vote
7:03PM
New law comes into effect on March 23: John Lee
6:54PM
Lawmakers pass Article 23 bill in unanimous landmark vote
6:49PM
‘Mixed feelings: Article 23 is my newborn baby’
6:43PM
‘Very happy we finished this constitutional responsibility’
6:29PM
Tang thanks lawmakers for supporting amendments
5:08PM
City leader John Lee set to address public
4:31PM
Legal experts feel less engaged in process
4:23PM
Tang briefs chamber on amendments
4:13PM
Bill enters next stage after lawmakers clear second reading
4:10PM
Executive power over subsidiary legislation will ‘ensure efficiency’
4:08PM
Tang defends new offences under Article 23 bill
4:06PM
Widespread public support for bill: Tang
3:58PM
All 88 lawmakers speak in support of legislation
3:57PM
Lawmaker asks why Beijing wants bill passed swiftly
3:53PM
7 lawmakers opt for English so far
3:51PM
Security chief thanks lawmakers for marathon review process
3:43PM
Top government officials attend session
3:40PM
Article 23 law is ‘more lenient’ than UK, Singapore
3:35PM
Lawmaker calls out ‘obvious double standards’ of foreign critics
3:28PM
Past legislative procedures ‘rigid’, Occupy leader under fire
3:05PM
‘A balance between national security and human rights’
2:58PM
Bill to bolster security, economy: former Law Society president
2:40PM
‘Teachers despised me when I gave NSL talks’
2:40PM
Witnessing history
2:39PM
Accountancy sector’s concerns ‘unnecessary’
2:11PM
Residents watch reading in Legco
2:05PM
Article 23 ‘is a historical debt’
2:04PM
Lawmaker accuses ex-colleagues of plotting with external forces
1:48PM
Timeline of the legislative process
1:45PM
‘True kindness must grow teeth’
1:23PM
‘Not easy’, but ‘finally here’: lawmaker on Article 23 law
1:22PM
Cross-border data transfer to benefit
1:12PM
No lunch break
1:01PM
Promote ‘high-quality’ law to world: Basic Law committee member
12:53PM
Half of lawmakers have spoken
12:48PM
National security risks exist, so we must pass legislation: lawmaker
12:35PM
‘Not yet the time to celebrate’
12:11PM
Lawmaker reassured over ‘disclosure of information in good faith’
12:02PM
Article 23 law a ‘gate’ for national security
11:50AM
Students visit Legco
11:49AM
Hongkongers’ ‘minds are at ease’ over bill
11:32AM
Lawmakers, unions praise bill and efforts to safeguard national security
11:21AM
Lawmaker vows to support bill, even at ‘cost of being smashed to pieces’
11:09AM
Lawmaker highlights ‘influencer’ role
11:08AM
Lawmaker calls on US to focus on its own human rights issues
11:05AM
Indonesian business group calls for ‘national security law consultation centres’
11:02AM
New law expected to rein in ‘traitors’
11:01AM
Nearly a quarter of lawmakers have spoken two hours in
10:57AM
Legco shows ‘unprecedented unity’ in supporting bill
10:48AM
‘Touching and inspiring moment’
10:48AM
Authorities must promptly rebut smears against Article 23 bill
10:38AM
‘Greatest blessing’ for Hong Kong
10:37AM
Basic Law expert praises legislative process
10:34AM
Starry Lee addresses international community
10:29AM
Bill is ‘evidence of one country, two systems’
10:19AM
‘We finally reached this moment’
10:16AM
Exco member takes aim at UK and US
10:11AM
‘Total fallacy to say foreign investors will quit city’
10:06AM
Hong Kong’s No 2 official calls for lawmakers’ unanimous support
10:02AM
‘Working for same goal’
10:02AM
Police presence at Legco, despite no signs of protest
9:59AM
‘Law-abiding residents do not have to worry’
9:57AM
‘Setting our own rules’
9:49AM
New law will rule out ‘evil deeds’ seen in 2019
9:46AM
Safeguarding national security is top priority
9:44AM
Law will only ‘target a very few people’
9:35AM
New bill ‘ensures judicial independence’
9:30AM
‘Step up explanations to ease doubts’
9:25AM
‘Rule of law principles followed’
9:24AM
Lawmakers take pictures together before reading resumes
9:13AM
Legco president hails ‘quality work’
9:10AM
‘Historical mission’
8:35AM
Key amendments
8:33AM
Punishments
8:32AM
Reminder from Beijing
8:29AM
‘Majority support’
8:28AM
Main targets of offences
8:27AM
Second attempt

CONVERSATIONS (123)
Hong Kong’s Article 23 national security law

Hong Kong politics

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Hong Kong national security law (NSL)

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Hong Kong Basic Law

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Hong Kong

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Legislative Council of Hong Kong

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John Lee

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