HK establishes committee for safeguarding national security

The Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, a top-level body responsible for HK affairs relating to national security, was established on Friday.

After Eric Chan Kwok-ki became its secretary-general on Thursday, Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng yuet-ngor appointed Edwina Lau Chi-wai as the deputy police commissioner.

The committee was founded in line with the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in HKSAR, which came into force on June 30.

A spokesperson of the SAR government also revealed the first meeting of the committee will be held soon, in an all-around effort to advance work on safeguarding national security.

In the meantime, Lam also designated six magistrates from existing ranks as judges to handle cases and appeals in relation to the national security law.

Upon appointment, Lam said Lau has served the police force for more than 35 years. She has shown outstanding leadership and professionalism during her services, Lam said.

Lam expressed her confidence in Lau to take on such important responsibilities to safeguard national security at this critical juncture by leading the department for safeguarding national security of the police force.

The national security committee, under the chairmanship of the SAR's chief executive, also include the SAR's other top officials, including the chief secretary for administration,the financial secretary,the secretary for justice, the secretary for security and the commissioner of police.

According to the new law, the committee is tasked with analyzing and assessing developments in relation to safeguarding national security, making work plans and formulating relevant policies. It is also responsible for coordinating major work and significant operations for safeguarding national security, as well as advancing the development of the legal system and enforcement mechanisms.