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| Amended law proposal sparks positive response ( 01/02/2003 ) | |||||||||
Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Jim Thompson said that the Government had addressed the concerns of the public. "The amendments show that the Hong Kong democratic process is working, which is a significant factor for any foreign investor, and proves that Hong Kong's traditional values have not changed," said Mr Thompson. "This is a huge step in the right direction." The German, Italian, Canadian and British Chamber of Commerce also welcomed the changes. The British Chamber said in a statement that it believed the Government had met a number of serious concerns of the international business community. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce said it was supportive of the amendments. "We believe that the government has taken most of the community's views into consideration and has introduced some meaningful and significant changes. The proof, of course, will be in the draft legislation and we look forward to seeing the draft and to more healthy community debate on this important issue."
Director of the Italian Chamber of Commerce Dr Orgera said, "This is a very positive move by the Government that shows they are willing to consider the views and concerns of business people in Hong Kong and abroad." Changes to the proposal include disposing of the offences of possession of seditious publications, misprision of treason (failure to report treason offences). Charges of treason cannot be levelled against non-Chinese nationals in Hong Kong. "Press freedom is the foundation of Hong Kong's success, and we must safeguard it," said Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa. "The media expressed worries during the consultation exercise. We must allay their worries because we have no intention of undermining press freedom. We have fully grasped the views of the public on this issue." The Basic Law is the constitutional document of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the blueprint for Hong Kong's future development. Related links: | |||||||||
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