The Article 45 Concern Group is disturbed by the Standing Committee's plan to interpret Annex I and Annex II of the Basic Law. While in no way questioning the authority of the Standing Committee to interpret the Basic Law, in our view, any exercise of the power to do so runs the risk of damaging confidence in the rule of law, the high degree autonomy and the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong at home and abroad. The impact caused by the interpretation of the Standing Committee in 1999 has already proved to be incalculable and continuous.
The total lack of transparency of this exercise further aggravates the risk referred to. The Concern Group demands that the HKSAR Government seek an explanation from the Central authorities, and report the matter to the Hong Kong community. The people of Hong Kong are entitled to have an opportunity to make representation before any further steps are taken by the Standing Committee.
26 March 2004