The US Government's accusations against the National Security Law since its implementation are unfounded and have simply twisted facts without credible substantiation, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said today.

In his statement, Mr Tang noted that endangering national security is a very serious crime. It is only right for actions to be taken to prevent, interdict and suppress the relevant acts.

Notwithstanding the above, the National Security Law upholds the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people, while freedoms of speech, of the press and of publication are among the rights and freedoms explicitly mentioned in Article 4 of the law as being protected in accordance with Hong Kong laws.

The security chief stressed that law enforcement actions taken by relevant agencies are based on evidence, strictly in accordance with the law, and for the acts of the people or entities concerned, which have nothing to do with their political stance, background or occupation.

He pointed out that since the implementation of the National Security Law last year, the US Government has exploited every incident and excuse to make slandering remarks about the law and attack the authorities of the People's Republic of China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in their dutiful, faithful and lawful implementation of the law.

The US Government's latest claim that imposing the so-called sanctions and issuing a business advisory were in response to the enactment and enforcement of the National Security Law was a lame excuse that could hardly stand up to challenge.

Mr Tang said the National Security Law has reverted the chaotic situation in Hong Kong seen from June 2019, with violent acts substantially reduced, influence of external forces observed to have diminished, and advocacy of Hong Kong independence subsiding.

The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to discharge its duty to safeguard national security in Hong Kong in accordance with the law, he added.