Commenting on the mass rally organized Sunday by groups concerned about the government's plan to legislate, the spokesman said, "We note that different views have been expressed over the government's proposals. We welcome the expression of opinions and are sensitive to people's concerns."

"Officials of the Security Bureau and the Department of Justice have attended more than 200 seminars, public hearings, forums, and media interviews since late September to explain the concepts behind our proposals, and to listen to people's views," he said.

"Today's rally bears testimony to the freedom of expression and the right to demonstrate which are enjoyed by Hong Kong residents. These rights and freedoms are guaranteed under the Basic Law," he said.

The spokesman pointed out that the government's proposals to implement Article 23 are in full compliance with international conventions on the protection of human rights.

"The HKSAR has both moral and constitutional obligations to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law," he said.

"Every nation has laws to protect the fundamental interests of the country. Hong Kong, being an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, must enact laws on its own to protect national security," he added.

The spokesman stressed that members of the public have full rights to express their views by way of rallies and demonstrations as long as they abide by the law and conduct them in a peaceful and rational manner.

"The government will take careful note of the views expressed today. We will continue to listen to different views of the community, which will be carefully studied and considered before formulating the draft legislation," he said.

So far, the Security Bureau has received over 9,500 submissions from organizations and individuals in response to Government proposals to implement Article 23. They include expressions of support and opposition.

(Xinhua News Agency December 16, 2002)