Dear friends of Hong Kong,
You may have seen the news about the public processions over the past two Sundays in Hong Kong on the proposed legislative amendments on the extradition laws. Having regard to the strong and different views in society, the Hong Kong Government issued a statement on June 16, saying that the Government has suspended the legislative amendment exercise on the extradition laws at the Legislative Council and there is no timetable for restarting the process.
The Chief Executive admitted deficiencies in the Government’s work had led to substantial controversies and disputes in society, causing disappointment and grief among the people. She apologised to the people of Hong Kong for this and pledged to adopt a most sincere and humble attitude to accept criticisms and make improvements in serving the public.
For details of the Government’s statement, please see below.
Yours sincerely,
Joanne Chu
Director, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York
Government response to public procession
In response to the public procession today (June 16), a Government spokesman said the following:
Over the past two Sundays, a large number of people have expressed their views during public processions. The Government understands that these views have been made out of love and care for Hong Kong.
The Chief Executive clearly heard the views expressed in a peaceful and rational manner. She acknowledged that this embodied the spirit of Hong Kong as a civilised, free, open and pluralistic society that values mutual respect, harmony and diversity. The Government also respects and treasures these core values of Hong Kong.
Having regard to the strong and different views in society, the Government has suspended the legislative amendment exercise at the full Legislative Council with a view to restoring calmness in society as soon as possible and avoiding any injuries to any persons. The Government reiterated that there is no timetable for restarting the process.
The Chief Executive admitted that the deficiencies in the Government’s work had led to substantial controversies and disputes in society, causing disappointment and grief among the people. The Chief Executive apologised to the people of Hong Kong for this and pledged to adopt a most sincere and humble attitude to accept criticisms and make improvements in serving the public.
Ends/Sunday, June 16, 2019
Issued at HKT 21:26