The National People's Congress Standing Committee has adopted the draft interpretation of Hong Kong's Basic Law, stating the tenure of the new Chief Executive should be the remainder of the predecessor.

The selection of the new Chief Executive will be held on July 10.

Acting Chief Executive Donald Tsang submitted a report to the State Council on April 6 proposing the interpretation to clarify the tenure. The council submitted a motion to the committee on April 10, asking the committee to interpret the relevant law.

According to Article 45, Clause 2 of Article 53 and Annex I of the Basic Law, the tenure should be for the remainder of the predecessor's in the event that the Chief Executive's Office becomes vacant before the five-year tenure expires.

Right move

Welcoming the decision, the Government said the committee has, in accordance with the Constitution and the Basic Law, made the most authoritative and legally-binding interpretation.

The timely and necessary interpretation effectively settles the debate on the term of office, removes the uncertainties affecting the normal operation of the Government and the community, and ensures the smooth by-election of a new Chief Executive on July 10. 

Under the design of One Country, Two Systems, the committee has the constitutional power to interpret the Basic Law. This will not affect One Country, Two Systems, Hong Kong people ruling Hong Kong and a high degree of autonomy. Hong Kong's rule of law, on which the city's success is based, will not be damaged.

The Government's major task ahead is to put in place the relevant electoral arrangements for the by-election. The interpretation has provided a firm constitutional basis for the amendment bill concerning the term of office of the new Chief Executive.

It is hoped the Legislative Council will pass the bill soon to complement the election. Lawmakers, political parties and organisations, as well as different sectors of the community are urged to work together in a harmonious spirit to further Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.