Bill of Rights reproduces in domestic law Articles 18, 19,
21 and 22 of the ICCPR concerning freedom of thought, conscience, religion, opinion, expression and association
and right of peaceful assembly.
Bill of Rights also reproduces ICCPR Article 14 concerning rights of persons charged with or convicted of criminal
offence.
Death Penalty
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Debate in LegCo on 26 June voted by 2-1 majority to
replace the death penalty in Hong Kong with sentence of life imprisonment.
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Hong Kong Government are now considering whether to introduce amending legislation.
Have always held that this decision is one for Hong Kong in the light of public and legislative opinion there.
Pro-democracy Activists
The Prosecutions were not politically motivated. Prosecutions are brought by Attorney General acting independently of the Executive.
The appeal against conviction (ruled in January 1991) was successful on one of the counts and the charges dropped.
The decision was well-received in Hong Kong and seen as
affirmation of rule of law and independence of judiciary.
ICCPR allows for restrictions on freedom of expression/peaceful assembly in order to safeguard rights
and freedoms of others. Restriction on use of loudspeakers
imposed with this in mind. Excessive noise in place like
MUKAPB/2
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