The Government today strongly condemned recent attempts by some individuals overseas to exert improper pressure on Court of Final Appeal non-permanent judge Patrick Keane, blatantly interfering with ongoing criminal proceedings in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The Government noted that any attempt by any organisation or individual to exert pressure on judges and judicial officers, and interfere with the criminal justice process by means of political power or any other means, is clearly a reprehensible act undermining the rule of law of the Hong Kong SAR and should be vehemently condemned.

It highlighted that Hong Kong's rule of law and independent judicial power are guaranteed under the Basic Law, which specifically provides that the judicial power, including that of final adjudication, vested with the Hong Kong SAR, is to be exercised by the Judiciary independently, free from any interference.

The Government said it fully supports the Judiciary in exercising its judicial power independently, safeguarding the due administration of justice and the rule of law.

Regarding Lai Chee-ying's case concerning the National Security Law, the Government pointed out that as the relevant legal proceedings are still ongoing, it is inappropriate for any person to comment on the details of the case or exert improper interference.

The Government emphasised that all cases are handled strictly on the basis of evidence and in accordance with the law. All defendants will receive a fair trial strictly in accordance with laws applicable to Hong Kong and as protected by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights.