NPC adopts decision on LegCo credentials

China's top legislature adopted a decision on the qualifications of members of the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The decision was passed as the 23rd session of the Standing Committee of the 13th National People's Congress concluded on Wednesday. During the two-day meeting, national legislators deliberated a motion proposed by the State Council on the request of Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor.

It stipulates members of the HKSAR LegCo will immediately be disqualified if they promote or support "Hong Kong independence", refuse to recognize national sovereignty over Hong Kong, lobby foreign forces to interfere in HK affairs or engage in other acts that endanger national security.

The decision also applies to members of the sixth LegCo, disqualified by Hong Kong authorities during the nomination period of the seventh LegCo election originally scheduled on Sept 6.

The disqualification shall be announced by the Hong Kong government.

NPC Standing Committee members believe it is necessary to ensure public officials of Hong Kong, including LegCo members, support the Basic Law - Hong Kong's "mini constitution" -and remain loyal to the HKSAR, in order to the fully implement the "one country, two systems" principle and the Basic Law, safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests and maintain Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, according to a statement released by the top legislature.