Hong Kong lawmakers could face suspension, pay cuts under proposed misconduct rules
Legco president says new rules are a good framework for lawmakers to perform their duties better, but will not affect those sincerely working for city
Hong Kong’s legislature will have greater scope to investigate lawmakers’ conduct based on evidence and complaints from named parties through an upgraded supervisory committee, according to a proposal to better monitor their performance.
A source said on Thursday that the proposals could result in extramarital affairs and acts that undermined the Legislative Council’s reputation being subject to investigation.
Legco president Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen earlier in the day said that the proposal included a new code for lawmakers that would require them to sincerely support the government and to refrain from intentionally vilifying its credibility.
Those found to be violating the code could be suspended from office or have their salaries deducted as a maximum penalty, he said, but stopped short of naming specific standards for categorising “minor, serious and gross” misconduct.
“The code provides a very good framework, under which lawmakers can perform their duties better … they have no impact on those who sincerely work for the city and residents,” Leung said, hours after the proposal was uploaded to Legco’s website.
“We cannot categorise the level of seriousness based on empty talk. It should be based on investigation and evidence, and whether certain conduct has harmed the legislature’s reputation.”