Hong Kong fully respects press freedom and the rule of law, Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang says, adding that society's wish is to strike a balance between protecting media autonomy and the legal system.

Responding to press enquiries today about the ICAC case involving an alleged conspiracy to pervert the course of justice, Mr Tsang said press freedom is fully protected under the constitution and law.

While it reflects one of Hong Kong's common values and is fully respected here, Hong Kong is also a law-abiding society.

"So, in a question of protecting the freedom of the press and protecting our legal system, and also the importance of law, we have to strike the balance somewhere. I am sure it is a common wish of our people," Mr Tsang said.

Media should adhere to the law

Secretary for Justice Elsie Leung said Hong Kong laws have already stipulated which type of information should be made public, and media organisations should adhere to the law.

Regarding the issue of search warrants during the operation, Ms Leung said the ICAC will decide the most appropriate action to be taken according to their professional judgement.

Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee said the ICAC has all along been conducting investigations in accordance with the powers entrusted to it under the law.

Freedom of the press and the rule of law are the cornerstone of Hong Kong's success, and the Government will make every effort to safeguard them, he said.