November 22, 2002

(Clearwisdom.net) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States on Thursday joined Britain in calling for laws that preserve the civil liberties which people in Hong Hong have enjoyed since the former British colony returned to China in 1997.

The U.S. State Department said there should also be the fullest possible consultation inside the territory on proposed anti-subversion legislation favoured by China.

Under a proposed law now under discussion, people found guilty of acts of treason, sedition, secession from, or subversion against the mainland government could be imprisoned for life. Human rights groups fear the law could be used against anyone who criticises China or its leaders.

On Monday, Britain said in a statement that any legislation that undermined the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms would be "seriously damaging" to the territory, which is now a special autonomous region of China.

U.S. State Department spokesman Philip Reeker said: "We believe there should be an opportunity for the fullest possible consultation on the draft legislation; effective consultation and public confidence requires the early release of the actual language for public deliberation.

"We join other members of the international community in encouraging a predictable, transparent and fair system that will allow all in Hong Kong to continue to enjoy long-standing freedoms and civil liberties that have made Hong Kong a success as an international city with its own unique character."

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