NPCSC Interpretation Clarified NSL Principles: CE

Chief Executive John Lee on Friday welcomed the decision and thanked the National People's Congress Standing Committee for interpreting the national security law, which clarified that the courts need approval from the Chief Executive, or the committee on safeguarding national security, to allow foreign lawyers to take part in national security cases here.

Speaking at a press conference, Lee said the interpretation clarified the principles of the national security law, adding that the SAR administration will steadfastly uphold national security to ensure the stability and sustainability of One Country, Two Systems.

The CE said he will decide whether to certify the involvement of overseas lawyers in national security cases based on the facts and information available to him.

He also stressed that the interpretation isn't just about former media tycoon Jimmy Lai's case.

"It is the principle, not case, that the interpretation deals with. So it will be up to Hong Kong to make use of [the national security law's] Article 14 and 47 to deal with the case concerned," he told reporters.

“That means, the Hong Kong national security committee will have to examine the issues, and then make a judgement, a decision as to how this matter will be addressed."

Lee pointed out that the interpretation only deals with "a small designated area", and overseas lawyers are most welcome to take part in non-security cases in Hong Kong.

Lee added that the SAR government is actively looking at amending the Legal Practitioners Ordinance to reflect the latest clarifications.