Both the Government and the public respect and treasure Hong Kong's free speech and freedom of the press.
The Government made the statement today in response to the public procession held by some media groups.
It noted the Chief Executive publicly stated that both the Government and he himself has attached great importance to these freedoms and will continue to do so.
The Government will strive to safeguard these core values as they are the major elements to sustaining Hong Kong's status as an international metropolis, and its continuous development.
On community concern expressed over staff changes in media organisations in recent years, the Government said it cannot interfere with the editorial freedom, independent operation and internal management of these organisations.
