Chief Secretary Hails Electoral Reform, Security Law

Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung has defended proposed changes to the city’s electoral system. Speaking on RTHK’s Letter to Hong Kong, he said the reforms - alongside the Beijing-imposed National Security Law - are needed to ensure the SAR is run by people who will champion "One Country, Two Systems".

Cheung said patriotism - like national security - was an "accepted international norm" when outlining the objectives of the reforms.

He said the changes will not impinge on the rights of Hong Kong residents to vote or to stand for election, and candidates of any political background can stand for election and be elected in accordance with the law.

The chief secretary also used his letter to promote the SAR's first "National Security Education Day" on Thursday - which will feature activities to raise awareness about national security. He said the impact of the Beijing-imposed law on restoring law and order on the SAR has been "telling".

He said "violence has all but disappeared. Advocacy of Hong Kong independence has subsided. Stability has been restored.

This means that you can now move about without fearing for your personal safety. It means, too, that you are free to express your views openly, while being respectful of the rights of others and not undermining national security.

Our rule of law and judicial independence remain solid and strong. So, too, are our basic rights and freedoms, including the freedom of speech, of the press, publication, association, assembly, procession and demonstration.

In short, Hong Kong has largely reverted to the safe, rational, inclusive and vibrant society it has long been celebrated for. The Hong Kong that we all know and love."