Secretary for Security John Lee says he is considering a Police recommendation to issue an order to ban the operation of the Hong Kong National Party.

Speaking to the media today, he said an Assistant Societies Officer gave him the proposal. 

The Societies Ordinance states the Societies Officer may make such a recommendation to the Secretary for Security if the officer reasonably believes prohibition of the operation or continued operation of a society or a branch is necessary in the interests of national security or public safety, public order or the protection of the rights and freedoms of others. 

Mr Lee said he is giving the group 21 days to submit written representations as to why he should not give the order. 

“In Hong Kong we have freedom of association, but that right is not without restrictions.

“According to the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance, restrictions can be made by law if it is necessary in the interests of national security or public safety, public order, the protection of public health or morals, or the protection of the rights and freedom of others.

“The wording of the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance is exactly the same wording of the provisions in the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights.

“We are acting in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong.”