Removal of water barriers symbolizes restoration of order: John Lee

Water barriers outside government headquarters have been removed today, symbolizing the restoration of order in Hong Kong, chief secretary John Lee Ka-chiu said.

Similar barriers in other locations are also going to be removed as safety returns to Hong Kong, Lee said in his blog today.

There were celebrations on National Day last Friday, in contrast to protests two years ago when more than 100 petrol bombs were hurled and fires were set at more than 68 locations, leading to the arrest of 300 people.

He said the national security law has been effective in keeping destructive and external forces at bay. The Legislative Council is expected to pass 40 bills this year, a double of an average of 20 bills in previous years.

Lee also said works have been carried out for 10,000 lampposts and 200 road structures. Such works helped create 300 temporary positions to help alleviate unemployment.