Security chief slams Blinked's 'unfounded and biased' remarks against new security law

The Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung strongly condemned the "unfounded and biased remarks" made by United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken that deliberately misled the public and smeared the new security law.

"Mr Blinken once again targeted the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's work on safeguarding national security and made slandering, smearing, misleading and erroneous remarks against the Ordinance (Safeguarding National Security Ordinance)," Tang said, "showing his despicable political manoeuver and hypocrisy with double standards." 

Tang said that 98.6 percent of the opinions showed support and positive comments during the public consultation of Article 23 legislation, reflecting a solid consensus regarding the legislation.

"Extraterritorial effect for the offenses endangering national security under the Ordinance fully aligns with the principles of international law, international practice and common practice adopted in various countries and regions," Tang added.

The security chief said the national security laws of other countries, including the US, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and the member states of the European Union also have an extraterritorial effect. 

"Mr Blinken neglected the relevant provision and lashed out wantonly, fully exposing his malicious intentions."

He emphasised the SAR government strongly urges the foreign governments with ulterior motives to stop smearing and interfering in Hong Kong affairs which are internal affairs of China, adding that it is incontrovertible that safeguarding national security will provide a better business environment for businesses operating in Hong Kong.