Letter from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs Concerning Article 23

8 January 2003

Question 45 from
The Chairman of the Danish Parliament's
Foreign Committee, Jan Sjursen
Common part -- annex 93.

Question 45:

The Minister is requested to make a comment on the enclosed letter and expound how Denmark and the EU have reacted towards China, regarding "Article 23 of the basic Law in Hong Kong."

Reply:

"The EU has expressed its concern about certain elements in the suggestion to implement Article 23 in Hong Kong's Basic Law to the authorities in Hong Kong. In this context, the EU has welcomed debate on the submitted proposal and requested the authorities to show responsiveness toward the views submitted from various sides. The EU has emphasised that the implementation of Article 23 must not change Hong Kong's respect for human rights and the basic rights of freedom. More specifically, among other things concern has been expressed about Article 23's effect on the media and the presentation of information, the possibilities of very broad definitions of offence, plus the suggestion to ban organisations affiliated with forbidden organisations in China. The EU's statement concerning this issue is enclosed."

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