Hong Kong and China

SIR – I refer to your report (May 24), “Masked activists gather as China tightens grip on Hong Kong”.

Every country has a right, and indeed a duty, to protect its security and sovereignty. The provisions of the International Covenants on Civil and Political Rights stipulate that these cannot undermine national security. To suggest that China has no right to legislate to protect national security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) smacks of double standards. Much of the criticism from politicians and pundits is alarmist speculation, and ignores the constitutional reality that Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China.

The proposed law will target acts of secession, subversion and terrorism, as well as activities interfering with HKSAR’s internal affairs by foreign or external forces. Law-abiding Hong Kong residents, including overseas investors, have nothing to fear.

In recent days, violent protesters have returned to the streets of Hong Kong. Sadly, those who claim to be acting in the Hong Kong people’s best interests turn a blind eye to the explosives, firearms, weapons, attacks on bystanders, vandalism, online trolling and disinformation campaigns used by radical protesters.

The decision by the National People’s Congress to enact the national security law will improve the legal framework and enforcement mechanisms for the HKSAR to safeguard security. The draft decision and the explanatory statement of the NPC stated that, when making the decision, the NPC would comply with the laws and the “one country, two systems” principle of Hong Kong.

The rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents under the law and independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication, will not be affected. Hong Kong will remain a free, cosmopolitan and open city. Our autonomy, and the cardinal principle of Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong as enshrined in the Basic Law, will remain intact – and the long-term stability and prosperity of this vibrant metropolis will be assured. Winky So

Director-General, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office London WC1