[Commentary] The statement on the "Law of the People's Republic of China on the Maintenance of National Security (Draft)" was announced recently. Tan Yaozong, member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, said in an exclusive interview with China News Service that the National Security Law concerning Hong Kong is a national law, but as can be seen from the draft note, the vast majority of cases are still handled by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, which reflects the central government’s Full trust.
[Same period] Tan Yaozong, member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress
In the (Note on the Draft National Security Law Concerning Hong Kong), you will understand that most of the cases concerning national security are referred to the law enforcement department of the SAR, the prosecution department and the judicial department of the Department of Justice, and they will handle and try these. The cases were not sent by judges from the Mainland, nor were all cases handed over to the Mainland for trial. No, this fully embodies the country’s trust in the SAR.
[Explanation] Tan Yaozong talked about the issue of safeguarding national security. While the central authorities fully trust the SAR, they will provide guidance, assistance and supervision to the SAR. It is mentioned in the draft note that the Special Administrative Region will establish a National Security Committee chaired by the Chief Executive, which will be responsible for the national security affairs and assume the main responsibility for the national security. The security consultants in the committee will be appointed by the central government. Tan Yaozong emphasized that this bridge role is crucial.
[Same period] Tan Yaozong, member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress
Consultants must have a wealth of experience, and they can all act as bridges, helping us to see what matters should be paid attention to in terms of national security, what conditions should be mastered, and what plans should be prepared. In these respects, consultants can assist our work, so it is important, and there is no "superior emperor", because everyone’s common goal is to improve national security and maintain national security.
[Explanation] In addition to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Committee for National Security, the draft note also mentions that the Central People’s Government has established a National Security Agency in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to exercise jurisdiction over a very small number of crimes against national security under certain circumstances. Hong Kong society has aroused great concern. In Tan Yaozong's view, the central government still hasn't reached the point where it needs to exercise jurisdiction. This legislative design is "preventing trouble."
[Same period] Tan Yaozong, member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress
There is an old saying in China called "preventing trouble before it happens". We did not appear to be so extreme today. It might happen one day. What should we do? Should we be the legal "killer"? We in Cantonese describe this as "the bottom of the pocket".
[Commentary] Tan Yaozong pointed out that in the past year, black violence has impacted Hong Kong society and seriously endangered national security. The news that the central government has taken action to protect Hong Kong’s national security legislation has inspired Hong Kong society. As for someone spreading rumors that the Hong Kong economy will be hit hard, Tan Yaozong believes that the status of Hong Kong's international financial center is not established once, a good foundation still exists, and a stable social environment will bring better development to Hong Kong.
Reporter Li Waner and Chen Haonan from Hong Kong
Editor in charge: [Fang Jialiang]