Justice boss Lam 'willing to hear out' doubters, critics

New Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok says he understands people may have doubts on or even criticisms of the rule of law, but he will listen to their opinions and explain his perspectives to them.

On his first official blog post yesterday, senior counsel Lam said his top priority is to defend and improve the rule of law.

"Objective facts have proven that the rule of law in Hong Kong is well recognized. My personal experience has also rendered me to have full confidence in the rule of law in Hong Kong," Lam said.

"I will guard against complacency and will not be oblivious to any weakness or shortcoming."

He said the rule of law should not be a difficult and unfathomable concept that only a few people could understand. Lam also emphasized that to build a society governed by the rule of law, the public should have "a sense of community based on mutual respect, tolerance, willingness to compromise and self-consciousness to abide by a common set of rules."

Lam added he appreciates people who have different views or doubts about the rule of law.

And he will listen to different voices and express his stance concisely to enhance mutual understanding in society.

His deputy, Horace Cheung Kwok-kwan, vowed to assist Lam in lobbying and public engagement on legal matters to allow the local and international community to accurately understand the rule of law in Hong Kong.

"As pointed out by the secretary for justice on his blog, the rule of law has always been the bedrock of Hong Kong's success," he said. "This core value is of utmost importance to the future of Hong Kong."

Cheung said the Basic Law protects the right and freedoms of residents and protects the independent judiciary and final adjudication.

"Facts speak louder than words. Hong Kong has been ranked high as the world's 19th in the rule of law, followed by many countries in Europe and the Americas," Cheung said.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, meanwhile, said President Xi Jinping's speech has "solidified" people's confidence in Hong Kong and one country, two systems. He said the president's visit during outbreaks has proven his care for the city.

He added that Hong Kong should seize the opportunity and catch up with the country's strategies - such as the 14th five-year plan, the construction of the Greater Bay Area and the development of "One belt one road" in opening a "new golden era" for Hong Kong.

eunice.lam@singtaonewscorp.com