1987-09-14 17:59 COMMS. OFFICE (GOV'T HSE)
852 5 845 0995
F.10
Nills www.
Public Order Ordinance
Background
Concern earlier this year over provision in Public Order (Amendment) Ordinance which makes it offence to publish false news likely to cause public alarm. Some saw provisions as infringement on press freedom. Legislation passed on 11 March. Media interest has subsided since then.
Possible Areas of Interest to Media
(A) Effects of Ordinance on future press freedom.
Line to Take: Aware of concern expressed at the time. Legislation passed on 11 March in HK represented very considerable liberalisation in comparison to previous position. HK before and since March has continued to possess one of most vigorous and outspoken press communities in Asia. Confident that this will remain s0.
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