Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung and Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng welcomed the passage of the decision on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region by the National People's Congress (NPC) today.

In his statement, Mr Cheung said he strongly supports the passage of the decision as it laid a solid foundation for improving Hong Kong's electoral system, which is of a pressing need.

With comprehensive implementation of the fundamental principle of patriots administering Hong Kong, national sovereignty, security and development interests can be safeguarded, the central authorities' overall jurisdiction over the Hong Kong SAR effectively implemented, the constitutional order set out in the Constitution and the Basic Law safeguarded, and law and order restored.

Additionally, the steadfast and successful implementation of "one country, two systems" can be ensured and the long-term stability and safety of Hong Kong achieved.

He noted that truly implementing the patriots administering Hong Kong principle can ensure effective governance underpinned by the Constitution, the Basic Law and the National Security Law.

The governing team of the Hong Kong SAR Government will stand together to garner consensus in society to build a harmonious community, improve people's livelihoods, promote economic development and address deep-seated problems for the betterment of people.

The Hong Kong SAR Government respects the central government taking the lead to improve the electoral system and will fully co-operate and support the relevant follow-up work, including strengthening explanation to the public and striving to complete the local legislative procedures as soon as possible.

Ms Cheng also agreed in her statement that the "one country, two systems" principle could be fully implemented only through the implementation of patriots administering Hong Kong.

She pointed out that while Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy, some matters including the constitutional order are still within the central authorities' purview. It is constitutional and legal for the NPC to adopt a "decision plus amendment" approach to improve Hong Kong's electoral system.

The Department of Justice is committed to rendering full support to the Government in completing the legislative amendments and making necessary arrangements for the elections in the coming 12 months, she added.

Meanwhile, Secretary for Security John Lee and the heads of six disciplinary forces each issued a statement, saying that they support the NPC's passage of the decision.

Mr Lee said he will lead the disciplinary forces to fully co-operate and continue to fulfil the responsibility of safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, and ensuring Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.