Freedom Of Speech 'is Not Absolute': Patrick Nip

The Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Patrick Nip warned on Saturday that freedom of speech and freedom of expression are not absolute in Hong Kong, and there are bound to be limitations, especially when national integrity is involved.

Speaking after attending a radio programme, Nip said it's not a matter of whether the SAR should introduce the national anthem law, but how it should be done.

Legislation being submitted to Legco sets out how altering, distorting or "insulting" the anthem could land offenders with fines of up to HK$50,000 or three years in prison.

It also says all those present at an event where the anthem is played must stand up and show respect, while the use of the anthem in commercial advertisements, at private funerals, or as background music in public venues, would be unlawful.

Nip stressed that the law is not intended to penalize people, and stressed they have nothing to worry about if they do not deliberately insult the "March of the Volunteers".

When asked if the government plans to hold the organisers of an event liable if participants boo the national anthem, Nip said the law would only govern individuals.

But he stressed that in the case of individuals "openly or wilfully disrespecting the national anthem then there will be sanctions and provisions in the national anthem law".

Pro-democracy parties have called on the government to consult the public about the law, warning of the dangers of ambiguous wording and a risk that the legislation could violate the "One Country, Two Systems" principle and the Basic Law.