What they say

The central government has every right to condemn lawmakers who refuse to perform their constitutional duties under the Basic Law. It was quite obvious that Kwok’s attempt to delay the election was due to his personal political agenda rather than a lack of understanding of procedure or efficiency.

Leung Chun-ying, former Hong Kong chief executive

The criticism by the central government bodies was based on facts. Obstructing the proper functioning of the Legislative Council for half a year was an obvious dereliction of duty.

Tam Yiu-chung, a member of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee

The comments by the two central government bodies were an expression of concern about Hong Kong’s situation, and the move was understandable.

It’s unsatisfactory that the House Committee has failed to elect a chairperson after 14 meetings in six months, leaving 14 bills on hold, and that 89 subsidiary pieces of legislation have expired on the committee’s schedule.

The lawmakers should settle disputes and fulfill legislative duties stipulated in the Basic Law in a pragmatic and united manner, as less than three months are left in the current LegCo term.

Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen, LegCo president

Kwok might have abused his powers in presiding over the committee election. He has acted contrary to maintaining the smooth functioning of the Legislative Council.

Ronny Tong Ka-wah, executive councilor and barrister

Kwok, who is also a lawyer, has failed the trust of the legal profession. Because of the opposition camp’s delaying tactics, the procedure of ratifying the appointment of the chief justice of the Court of Final Appeal has also been delayed.

Priscilla Leung Mei-fun, barrister and lawmaker

A legislature that fails to function is detrimental to the well-being of all Hong Kong residents, and, for that reason, the central government has the obligation to speak out.

Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee, legislator and executive councilor

The HKMAO and the Liaison Office made the comments to ensure the proper implementation of the “one country, two systems” principle for the long-term stability of Hong Kong.

Gary Chan Hak-kan, legislator

If the Legislative Council continues to delay a huge number of livelihood projects, it will bring down the whole society of Hong Kong.

Opposition lawmakers have always been talking about “democracy” and “freedom of speech”. Some of them even have frequently asked foreign countries for their comments on Hong Kong affairs. But now, they do not allow the truly legitimate State organs that overview Hong Kong and Macao affairs to express their views. Isn’t that a double standard?

Wong Ting-chung, Hong Kong deputy to the National People’s Congress