4 July 2003

Motion on Adjournment at LegCo on 4 July 2003

How Hong Kong should deal with the strong demands made by over 500,000 people on 1 July, so as to avoid Hong Kong sinking into a political crisis

Madam President,

Following days of thorough consultation, I found out the mainstream opinion of engineering professionals, i.e. demanding the government to defer the enactment of Article 23. 

In principle, engineers support the enactment of Article 23 of the Basic Law which is to protect national interests and maintain Hong Kong's prosperity and stability. Its enactment is line with the resumption of the sovereignty of Hong Kong by the Motherland. However, the majority of engineers feel that there is not sufficient consultation. Further elaboration and explanation on numerous provisions of the proposed legislation should be given to citizens so as to eliminate their worries. There are also problems in individual provisions such as the proscription of organisations, the emergency powers of police and the absence of any defence of public interest. In addition, they are not happy with the government's attempt to bulldoze through the legislation. 

On 1 July, half a million people took to the street to express their discontent with the government. With no imminent threat to national security at the moment, the enactment of national security legislation should be slowed down a bit. In line with what Premier Wen Jiabao has said earlier to encourage Hong Kong people – “It is understanding, trust and unity. It is confidence, courage and action.”, the HKSAR Government should review and amend those controversial provisions. It must also work hard with patience to win the support and understanding of the people. By stepping back a bit, the government can indeed get more breathing space. The government should consider thoroughly with a view to completing the legislation of Article 23. With these remarks, I so submit.”