Opposition Continues Battle Against Rail Bill

Pro-democracy lawmakers continued their battle on Wednesday against the government's controversial plan for the express rail terminal as the Legco process entered another phase.

Council Front's Au Nok-hin wanted an adjournment debate on the safety of the Hung Hom Station, saying it involved public safety. But his move was rejected by Legco president Andrew Leung, who ruled the house can debate it later.

During discussions on the second reading of the bill, Civic Party legislator Dennis Kwok criticised Leung’s actions and the time limit of 36 hours he has set for the debate. Kwok said lawmakers might as well forget about holding debates from now on.

His party-mate Tanya Chan accused Leung of not doing his duty and turning Legco into a rubber stamp.

But Leung said this is an urgent bill, and his decision to limit the time for debate follows a long-standing practice.

The Carrie Lam administration had indicated that it wants the legislative process completed within three months of the bill's introduction. The bill was submitted to lawmakers in February.

The new cross-border line is due to open in September.