The National Security Bill is in full accordance with the One Country, Two Systems principle and international human rights standards.

Responding to a statement by the British Foreign Office, the Government reiterated that the bill has proposed that all its provisions must be interpreted, applied and enforced in accordance with the Basic Law.

This mandates strict compliance with international standards on rights and freedoms, including the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights. The bill will not undermine fundamental rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents.

There is no question of extending Mainland laws or concepts on national security to Hong Kong.

The power of proscription will only be exercised in accordance with Hong Kong laws and the international covenant. All proscription decisions are appealable in Hong Kong courts.

Meanwhile, the Government has published two new leaflets to further explain the bill. Both drive home the message that the fundamental rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents will be preserved under the proposed legislation.

They assure that the proposals to implement Article 23 are more liberal than existing laws.

The leaflets will be printed in English and Chinese, and can be obtained from the Government Publications Centre at Queensway Government Offices, and the Information Services Department's Marketing Office on 4/F, Murray Building, Garden Road.

They will be available for collection later at the Public Enquiry Service Centres of the District Offices and the Housing Authority's shopping malls.

Also, they can be downloaded from www.basiclaw23.gov.hk.