Various sectors of the Hong Kong society have voiced support for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government's decision to suspend  amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance and the Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Ordinance. 

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Hong Kong SAR announces suspension of amendments to fugitive bill 

Central government extends support for Lam's announcement 

The Non-official Members of the HKSAR Executive Council (ExCo Members) said in a statement that they would continue to offer their full support for the SAR's Chief Executive Carrie Lam, and would call on members of the public to adopt a calm and rational manner when expressing their views, and to safeguard the civilized, free, open and pluralistic society of Hong Kong. 

Speaking through a spokesperson, president of the LegCo Andrew Leung said he understood the decision and believed it was made after carefully listening to the voices of various sectors of the society. 

He said that the decision would enable more explanation and appealed to the public to express their views in a peaceful and rational manner that reflects Hong Kong's long respect for the rule of law. 

Chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Aron Harilela said the organization welcomed the HKSAR government's decision for it would allow things to cool down and let everyone return to rational debate. 

"We look forward to the government continuing to engage in constructive discussions with stakeholders and the public to address and eliminate doubts about the bill," added Harilela. 

Starry Lee Wai-king, chairwoman of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB), said that the DAB respects the decision and understands the need for amendments. She hopes that all sectors of the community will continue to express their views to the HKSAR government. 

The Business and Professionals Alliance for Hong Kong (BPA) stated its support and understanding regarding the decision to suspend the amendments. It expressed hope that the HKSAR government will explain the contents of the bill to the community in detail and listen to the views of the public. They also called on all sectors of society to jointly safeguard social peace and the rule of law in Hong Kong. 

The Federation of Hong Kong Industries also expressed its approval of the decision and said it looks forward to rational discussions with all sectors of the community. The federation said the suspension will help society fully understand the amendments and eliminate unnecessary doubts.  

(With input from Xinhua)