National security law backed
Secretary for Security John Lee and six disciplinary forces today pledged their full support of the National People’s Congress’ (NPC) deliberation of a draft decision on establishing and improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to safeguard national security.
Mr Lee noted that violence has escalated in Hong Kong over the past year, with many cases involving explosives and genuine firearms. He stressed that terrorism is growing in the city and activities which harm national security, such as Hong Kong independence, are becoming more rampant.
"I fully support the NPC's draft decision on establishing and improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong SAR to safeguard national security which allows Hong Kong to be back on track, ensuring its long-term prosperity and stability," he said.
Commissioner of Police Tang Ping-keung expressed his full support for the decision and said he will strive to do his best to maintain national security by leading the force to work with other disciplinary forces under the Security Bureau.
Commissioner of Customs & Excise Hermes Tang also welcomed the decision and said he will strive to lead the department to perform its gatekeeping role in preventing the import and export of controlled and prohibited items into and out of Hong Kong, with a view to prohibiting acts that endanger Hong Kong and national security.
Commissioner of Correctional Services Woo Ying-ming explained, under the leadership of the bureau, the Correctional Services Department will co-operate with other disciplinary forces, support Police to take resolute enforcement actions and assist the Hong Kong SAR Government in restoring public order, stopping violence, curbing disorder and safeguarding national security.
Controller of the Government Flying Service Wu Wai-hung stated that the force is ready to support Police to take resolute enforcement actions and will fully support the Hong Kong SAR Government to implement the decision of the NPC.
Director of Fire Services Joseph Leung emphasised that the department, as a member of the Hong Kong SAR disciplinary forces, fully supports the bureau in leading all disciplinary forces to discharge their due duties for safeguarding national security and the safety of Hong Kong.
Acting Director of Immigration Au Ka-wang indicated that the department will, by adhering to all applicable laws and current immigration policies, continue to safeguard Hong Kong and prevent acts that endanger national security.