Alvin Yeung Sees Nightmare, Tam Yiu-chung Hails Move

Details of the new security law revealed on Saturday were described as a nightmare for Hong Kong by an opposition lawmaker, but a pro-Beijing heavyweight dismissed such concerns saying the central government's move will facilitate better coordination and communication.

Civic Party leader Alvin Yeung said a state media report on the details of the legislation shows the city’s worst nightmare has been mapped out.

The Xinhua report revealed many key components of the legislation, like the establishment of a new commission supervised by the central government to handle national security issues, but remained vague on some details like penalties under the law.

Opposition lawmaker Yeung said the lack of detail when it comes to specific criminal actions was most worrying.

He also said the move to grant the Chief Executive the power to appoint judges in cases related to the new law could be problematic.

"What worries me most is if any judges rule in future, if they favour the defendant, will they be removed?” he asked.

He said it was as if Beijing's hand was on the administrative and judicial reins of the SAR.

But the only local deputy to the NPCSC, Tam Yiu-chung, justified the proposal of Beijing appointing a national security consultant to advise a new commission headed by the Chief Executive that will handle national security issues.

Tam rebuffed suggestions that this is a sign that Beijing does not trust SAR officials can do their job. He said national security cases could be very complex, and may require additional information to be provided by Beijing.

He also said a consultant appointed by the central government will facilitate coordination and communication work.

The New People's Party issued a statement welcoming the draft, saying it hopes the legislation can be completed as soon as possible to restore peace and order.

______________________________