TNAG-1815-FCO40-2576-Hong-Kong-Public-Order-(Amendment)-Bill-1988-1988 — Page 16

CONFIDENTIAL

For decision

on 29 November 1988

Problem

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XCC (88)

Copy No.

22

MEMORANDUM FOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Public Order Ordinance, Cap. 245

PUBLIC ORDER (AMENDMENT) BILL 1988

інка 30112

PA

25/12

The Government is publicly committed to

conducting a review of Section 27 (the so-called "false

news" provision) of the Public Order Ordinance, Chapter 245.

An internal review has concluded that any benefit from the

Section's existence in the law is heavily outweighed by the

odium it has brought to Hong Kong's good name

internationally, and to the Government locally.

Recommendation and Advice Sought

Annex A

2.

It is recommended that the Public Order

(Amendment) Bill 1988 (Annex A), which repeals Section 27,

be introduced into the Legislative Council.

3.

Members will be asked to advise whether this

recommendation should be approved.

CONFIDENTIAL #

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