Legco protest fears over anthem law

Activists are calling for a general strike, class boycotts and traffic stoppage as the national anthem bill begins its second reading in the Legislative Council today.

But ahead of an expected tense session, Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang Kwok-wai asked people to "stay rational and not to flout the law."

Tsang added: "The national anthem is the symbol of the country. It is a constitutional responsibility for both lawmakers and citizens to pass the bill.

He also appealed to people not to be moved by accusations that "intentionally smear and demonize" the bill.

"Every article in the proposed law was thoroughly debated on in the Legco Bills Committee and we have absorbed advice from different sectors of society, while the bill itself is not controversial nor complicated," he said.

The government will press on with the legislation, Tsang said.

"After a detailed study was completed, the national anthem law was included under Annex III of the Basic Law. We have decided to use local legislation to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of the law in Hong Kong," Tsang said.

At the same time, security measures were stepped up in the vicinity of the Legco complex and the central government offices in Tamar, with 3,000 police officers and water cannon trucks to be deployed today.

Roads were blocked off by police last night as road bricks were glued to the pavement and fences fastened with reinforced nails.

Fire engines and ambulances were seen entering government headquarters and iron fences were placed in front of water barricades surrounding the Legco complex.

This came after social media buzzed with chatter about mass protests and several unions called for a general strike today. Web users also set out plans to paralyze traffic while student groups called for class boycotts, just as Secondary Three to Five students are set to return to school.

Police strongly condemned calls to paralyze traffic.

"Not only does it affect other road users, it may also obstruct emergency services," the force said.

"Police will not tolerate any illegal acts and will act decisively, including making arrests and even tow away vehicles causing obstructions."

Some 22 concern groups from secondary schools joined a petition calling for a class boycott to protest the anthem and the national security laws.

The groups said the laws would deprive students and teachers of freedom of speech and see nationalism encroach on local education.

Tsang dismissed such claims, calling on people not to worry, as the law specifically targets national security threats.

He also spoke out against people calling the national security law "a more vigorous version of Article 23," saying the legislation was aimed at plugging loopholes that pose a risk to national security.

michael.shum@singtaonewscorp.com