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28 November 2002
The Editor
The Standard
Dear Sir,
I invariably enjoy the articles which you publish written by Stuart
Wolfendale. His irreverent gibes at the expense of government can always
raise a chuckle. However, in case his "Viewpoint" on 23 November 2002 was
intended to be taken seriously, I would like to respond to his suggestions that
"foreigners" are in some way targeted by the proposals to implement Article 23
of the Basic Law. Nothing could be further from the truth.
The government proposes that relevant offences should apply
equally to everyone in respect of their actions in Hong Kong whether or not
they are Chinese or Hong Kong Permanent Residents. In addition, it
considers that, in respect of offences as serious as treason or the violent
overthrow of the Government, Hong Kong Permanent Residents should be
liable for their actions wherever they occur. Hong Kong Permanent Resident
Status brings with it certain benefits, including a right of abode. It would be
strange if someone could go overseas to plot the violent overthrow of the
government and then insist on returning to Hong Kong with impunity.
However, some people have pointed out that, once acquired, the
Hong Kong Permanent Resident Status is difficult to relinquish. Even if you
leave Hong Kong permanently to emigrate or, for some of us "foreigners", to
return to the home country you may retain your status and right of abode. In
the event of hostilities this could have adverse consequences for the emigrant.
His liability as a Permanent Resident could conflict with his duties to his new
home country which might even demand his services in the armed forces.
While the perceived problem of conflict of loyalties is not unique to Hon Kong,
to ease concerns, the Secretary for Security is considering whether to introduce
a mechanism whereby the status of Permanent Resident may be renounced.
Initial reaction to this by some local consulates is positive.
Mr Wolfendale is, of course, free to object to the proposal.
However, his suggestion that it is motivated by a desire to get rid of foreign
nationals is absurd. Perhaps we were not meant to take it seriously. The SAR
Government fully appreciate the important role played by expatriates in Hong
Kong's success and welcomes their continuing contribution to all walks of life.
Particularly journalism.
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