China's top legislature has reviewed a draft law on safeguarding national security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The draft law was submitted for deliberation to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress at its session from June 18 to 20.

Li Zhanshu, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, pointed out that the legislation is a major measure to uphold and improve "One Country, Two Systems", and a fundamental solution to ensure Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability.

Chief Executive of HKSAR Carrie Lam responded that the HKSAR government gives its full support and will perform its duty to ensure the effective implementation of relevant laws in Hong Kong, adding that the legislation will not harm the legal system of the region and its capitalist system.

With 66 articles, the draft law has six chapters, namely its general principles; the HKSAR's duties and institutions for safeguarding national security; crimes and penalties; jurisdiction over national security cases, application of law and procedures; institutions of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR for safeguarding national security; and supplementary provisions. 

Where the local laws of the HKSAR are inconsistent with this Law, the provisions of this Law shall apply and the power of interpretation of this Law shall be vested in the Standing Committee of the NPC, according to the draft law.

Here are more details:

Five highlighted principles

The draft law stresses that national security legislation should be based on five principles, namely resolutely safeguarding national security, upholding and improving "One Country, Two Systems," administering Hong Kong in accordance with law, resolutely opposing foreign interference, and effectively protecting the legitimate rights and interests of Hong Kong residents.

Key points of the draft law

- It clearly stipulates the fundamental responsibility of the Central People's Government for relevant state security affairs and the constitutional responsibility of the HKSAR for safeguarding national security.

- It clearly stipulates the important principles of the rule of law that the HKSAR should abide by in safeguarding national security, such as ensuring human rights protection.

- It clearly stipulates that the HKSAR shall establish and improve relevant institutions and functions for safeguarding state security.

A national security committee shall be established in the HKSAR, which takes the responsibility of safeguarding national security affairs in the region, and be subject to supervision and accountability of the Central People's Government.

The committee shall be chaired by the Chief Executive, according to the draft.

- It clearly stipulates four types of crimes and penalties against national security: Secession, subversion of state power, terrorist activities and collusion with foreign and external forces to endanger national security.

- It clearly stipulates that the Central People's Government shall establish a national security office in the HKSAR.

The HK national security office shall establish a coordination mechanism with the national security committee, and supervise and guide the work of the region for the maintenance of state security.