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Minister: Yes, I endorse entirely what the Governor says. The Governor is absolutely right. We have made it clear when I spoke to the Chinese ambassador in London that we believe that what they are proposing and what the legal sub-group has proposed is totally inconsistent with the Basic Law. We have pointed out Article 39, we have pointed out that there is no logic or legal advice which support their view whatsoever and we have said that all we have done in the past is to make the law of Hong Kong consistent with what have been agreed with the Chinese previously. Not only that but what they are doing is inconsistent as well with the fact that it's for the SAR government to legislate if they wish not for legislation in advance, or even suggested legislation in advance. So I fully support the Governor. These are matters which are treated extremely seriously by the British Government. They are treated extremely seriously by the international community. And I don't know any issue that has so united with the international community in condemnation because it is after all hurting the very substance, the very nature that makes Hong Kong so special.
Question: The ... channel of the British Government ...?
Governor: That is precisely what we have done. But I am not sure what it is that you are proposing. Can I just add one final point then I think you probably have enough to write about. It's sometime said, I think it has been said by an official today. I don't know why people are going so fuss about this. While the NPC may strike these laws down, what then happens is going to be left to the SAR government. Let me make these three points. First of all, how can you possibly pre-empt so in advance what the NPC and the Preparatory Committee are going to do? Has it been decided in advance? Secondly, if it is for the SAR, then why try to cook it in advance? Why try to determine what the SAR are going to do? And thirdly, which is the key question that any change which strikes these laws down and seeks to replace them with laws like those that were there before would be in contravention with the International Covenants and also any thing which amends the Bill of Rights in a way which has been proposed would weaken our civil liberties protection and which strike at the heart at the rule of law. Thanks very much.
End
Public hearing on Garley Building fire to start on Monday
The Commission of Inquiry into the Garley Building Fire will conduct its first day of public hearing on Monday (February 3), in the commission's hearing room, 15th floor, Edinburgh Tower, The Landmark, Central, Hong Kong.
The hearing will start at 10 am and is expected to last until 4.30 pm.
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