What will get Hongkongers into trouble under national anthem law? Government called on for details
Pan-democrats call for public consultation, but pro-Beijinger says it would be impractical to consult on every detail
Pro-democracy lawmakers have criticised the lack of clarity over the incoming law against disrespecting the national anthem, and called on the government to spell out how it will be enforced.
They also demanded a full public consultation on the law. But a pro-Beijing politician said it would be impractical to consult on every last detail.
The standing committee of the National People’s Congress on Saturday inserting the anthem law into a list of mainland laws to be enforced in the city. The city government now has to pass a local law to that effect.
The move to protect the anthem will be of particular importance to fans of the Hong Kong soccer team, some of whom regularly boo March of the Volunteers when it plays before their team’s matches.
Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung Kin-chung on Saturday did not make any promises to hold a public consultation. He said the government would draft the local version of the National Anthem Law and table it at the Legislative Council as soon as possible. Cheung said going before Legco was a way to listen to public views.
