(To watch the full press conference with sign language interpretation, click here.)

The Government will ensure that members of the public understand what the legislation under Article 23 of the Basic Law can do for them and society as a whole in its efforts to complete the legislative exercise in 2024.
 
Chief Executive John Lee made the remarks during a press conference this afternoon where he explained the rationale behind the main initiatives he raised in his second Policy Address.
 
While addressing questions from the media about Article 23 legislation, Mr Lee emphasised the importance of fulfilling the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s constitutional responsibility.
 
In accordance with Article 23 of the Basic Law, Hong Kong will move to enact laws of its own to prohibit acts and activities that endanger national security.
 
Furthermore, Article 7 of the National Security Law stipulates that the Hong Kong SAR Government shall complete, as early as possible, legislation for safeguarding national security.
 
The Chief Executive pointed out that the Hong Kong SAR Government has not been able to fulfil the requirements as stated in Article 23 of the Basic Law, despite the fact that constitutional responsibility is one of the key areas for any government to be serious about.
 
“So, yes, while we will develop our economy to help (to improve) people’s livelihoods, we cannot forget the Government also has constitutional responsibilities.
 
“Without (the) Constitution, I think, things will become chaotic. So, yes, we will do Article 23 enactment in 2024.”
 
Mr Lee also explained the current-term Government’s approach in taking the matter forward.
 
“We will be doing consultation in regard to enactment of Article 23. We did not succeed in 2003. I would say it was because of, in some way, not being able to make people understand very properly what Article 23 can do for them in a positive way.
 
“I think after the 2019 harms and troubles, people understand how national security is an important factor for stability, and for continuing our normal day-to-day lives.
 
“And I think the answer is very simple. We will ensure that people will understand what the eventual legislation will do. It will protect them and ensure that they will go about their day-to-day duty and day-to-day activities freely, happily and also without worrying about security threats, particularly national security threats.”