Public Consultation on Legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law for National Security
Release Date: 2024-02-26
February 26, 2024.
To: Security Bureau
Subject: Public Consultation on Legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law for National Security
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association expresses strong support for the Hong Kong SAR's commitment to fulfilling its constitutional duties by enacting the legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law promptly.
Safeguarding national security is a core objective of the "One Country, Two Systems" framework and a constitutional obligation that the Hong Kong SAR government must address. This is crucial for ensuring Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. The SAR government should expedite the legislative process to address existing gaps in national security. National security is paramount for any nation and forms the foundation for survival and growth. It is only through the assurance of national security and social stability that reform and development can flourish. National security aims to protect the populace, uphold the fundamental interests of citizens, and is indispensable for societal prosperity and stability, as well as the well-being of the people. As an integral part of the People's Republic of China, the Hong Kong SAR must adhere to national security standards. Our association believes that legislating Article 23 will enhance the business environment and positively impact Hong Kong's economic development in the long term. We are committed to supporting the swift enactment of Article 23.
Our association advocates for the legislation of Article 23 and recommends that the government intensify its communication efforts with the financial sector to foster the industry's positive development. The government should counteract misconceptions by promoting awareness, allocating resources for education and promotion, attracting and retaining capital, and addressing concerns related to Article 23. This is vital for Hong Kong's role as a premier connector.
Concerning the statutory inclusion of the “Concealment of Treason” offense, our association recognizes its necessity. We urge the government to clarify, during its outreach, the definition of a “reasonable time” for reporting treasonous knowledge to authorities, ensuring all parties understand their obligations and alleviating any uncertainties.
We call on all societal sectors to support the SAR government in passing Article 23 legislation, confident that the government will consider all stakeholder input, build social consensus, and implement collectively supported legal measures. This will guarantee the enduring success of "One Country, Two Systems," spearhead prosperity, and enable Hong Kong citizens to thrive in peace while national security is strengthened.
For any inquiries regarding this letter, please contact me (Phone: / Email: @hksfpa.org) or Mr. Wong Hoi-lok Ivan, Director of the Industrial Relations Department (Phone: / Email: @hksfpa.org).
Wishing you a season of peace and prosperity.
Mofiz Chan
Chairman
Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association
To: Security Bureau
Subject: Public Consultation on Legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law for National Security
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association expresses strong support for the Hong Kong SAR's commitment to fulfilling its constitutional duties by enacting the legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law promptly.
Safeguarding national security is a core objective of the "One Country, Two Systems" framework and a constitutional obligation that the Hong Kong SAR government must address. This is crucial for ensuring Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. The SAR government should expedite the legislative process to address existing gaps in national security. National security is paramount for any nation and forms the foundation for survival and growth. It is only through the assurance of national security and social stability that reform and development can flourish. National security aims to protect the populace, uphold the fundamental interests of citizens, and is indispensable for societal prosperity and stability, as well as the well-being of the people. As an integral part of the People's Republic of China, the Hong Kong SAR must adhere to national security standards. Our association believes that legislating Article 23 will enhance the business environment and positively impact Hong Kong's economic development in the long term. We are committed to supporting the swift enactment of Article 23.
Our association advocates for the legislation of Article 23 and recommends that the government intensify its communication efforts with the financial sector to foster the industry's positive development. The government should counteract misconceptions by promoting awareness, allocating resources for education and promotion, attracting and retaining capital, and addressing concerns related to Article 23. This is vital for Hong Kong's role as a premier connector.
Concerning the statutory inclusion of the “Concealment of Treason” offense, our association recognizes its necessity. We urge the government to clarify, during its outreach, the definition of a “reasonable time” for reporting treasonous knowledge to authorities, ensuring all parties understand their obligations and alleviating any uncertainties.
We call on all societal sectors to support the SAR government in passing Article 23 legislation, confident that the government will consider all stakeholder input, build social consensus, and implement collectively supported legal measures. This will guarantee the enduring success of "One Country, Two Systems," spearhead prosperity, and enable Hong Kong citizens to thrive in peace while national security is strengthened.
For any inquiries regarding this letter, please contact me (Phone: / Email: @hksfpa.org) or Mr. Wong Hoi-lok Ivan, Director of the Industrial Relations Department (Phone: / Email: @hksfpa.org).
Wishing you a season of peace and prosperity.
Mofiz Chan
Chairman
Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association