Question: On 19 March, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron issued a statement claiming that the Basic Law Article 23 legislation was rushed through the legislative process, and will damage the rule of law, autonomy, and the rights and freedoms enjoyed in Hong Kong. What is your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: The remarks from the British side are a serious distortion of the facts and constitute grave interference in China’s internal affairs. We are firmly against this.

The Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)’s passage of the Safeguarding National Security Bill represents the fulfillment of the constitutional responsibility of the HKSAR to safeguard national security, which meets the long-awaited shared aspiration of people in the whole country, including Hong Kong compatriots.

The legislative process was rigorous and procedure-based. The content is sound and reasonable. The definition of criminal elements is clear. The severity of penalties is appropriate. It is in line with international law and international common practice.

It fully safeguards the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents under the Basic Law, and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights that are applicable to the HKSAR.

It will contribute to a more stable and transparent business environment in Hong Kong, safeguarding the long-term stability and prosperity in the city.

Hong Kong-related affairs are China's internal affairs, on which the UK side is in no position to make unwarranted remarks. We urge the UK to cease its baseless accusations regarding the legislation of Article 23 of the Basic Law and refrain from interfering in China's internal affairs under any pretext.