Hong Kong Legislative Council

Hong Kong lawmakers returned from a study trip to Beijing, gaining insights to assist in creating the city’s first five-year plan. The delegation met with Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, at the Great Hall of the People.

Hong Kong Legislative Council president Starry Lee Wai-king urged members to uphold higher conduct standards after lawmaker William Wong Kam-fai resigned following his arrest for alleged drink-driving. Lee acknowledged Wong's resignation as an acceptance of responsibility and noted public expectations for Legco members.

The Hong Kong government has proposed new subsidiary legislation to clarify the scope of national security cases under its national security laws. Security and justice authorities submitted the amendments to the Legislative Council, introducing a classification mechanism for 'other offences endangering national security' requiring certification from the chief executive.

Hong Kong Legislative Council president Starry Lee Wai-king urged officials to respect lawmakers’ dissenting views amid increased government pushback, emphasizing that public policies have both pros and cons and that mutual respect between the executive and legislative branches is essential.

All 90 Hong Kong lawmakers will undertake a historic week-long study visit to Beijing from July 19-25, attending seminars on national security and geopolitical issues while touring the tech sector. The trip is estimated to cost approximately HK$1.4 million in total.