26 October 2002

The Editor
Washington Post

Dear Sir,

I refer to an open letter signed by 44 academics carried by your newspaper (October 24) opposing the implementation of Article 23 of the Basic Law in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

I must say it is regrettable that the academics in question have based their objection on over-simplistic perceptions, apparently without much knowledge of our detailed proposals. They have failed to take account of the serious efforts made by the HKSAR Government to implement "one country, two systems" in the area of protecting national security.

Our proposals to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law, which are mainly based on existing Hong Kong laws, do not involve extending or applying Mainland laws to Hong Kong.

In formulating the proposals, we have narrowed down the scope of existing laws and removed antiquated provisions, wherever appropriate. All of our proposals are in line with established common law principles and international human rights standards.

Allegations that the judicial power of Hong Kong courts has already weakened are groundless. Our courts continue to function independently in upholding fundamental rights and freedoms and reviewing the lawfulness of executive actions.

Press freedom is guaranteed under the Basic Law. In the past five years, the local media have been as robust as ever. The Hong Kong media continue to report freely, comment extensively and critically on various issues. Just recently, HK was ranked first in Asia and 18th in the world in a press freedom index compiled by Reporters sans Frontieres.

Yours faithfully, ( Mrs Regina Ip ) Secretary for Security Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

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