20 November 2002

The Editor
Forbes Global

Dear Sir,

Contrary to what is stated in your article "One country, one system" (November 25), our proposals to protect national security have been formulated entirely in Hong Kong and draw largely on existing laws which, in many cases, have actually been narrowed considerably in scope. There is no question of transplanting Mainland laws into Hong Kong's legal system.

The penalties for crimes such as treason, sedition, subversion and secession are in line with the same or similar offences in other jurisdictions such as the US, the UK and Canada.

Acts of violence, or the threat of violence, or conduct of serious unlawful means would be required before most of the proposed offences are committed. The definition of 'serious unlawful means' is drawn from existing laws and relates to behaviour akin to terrorism or terrorist activities. I certainly believe that the usual reporting activities of journalists in Hong Kong would rarely, if ever, fall into this category.

As stated in your article, Hong Kong is well known for its rule of law, an independent judiciary and the free flow of information, which is evidenced by the open and vigorous manner in which the proposals are being debated by all sectors of the community.

Recent surveys by the business community here have shown their confidence in Hong Kong, which has just been adjudged the world's freest economy for the 9th consecutive year by the Heritage Foundation. We have every intention of preserving our edge as a leading international financial and trading centre.

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

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