Letters | Why a democratic UK should treasure the chance to interact with Hong Kong legislators
- Readers discuss the UK’s branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association withdrawing an invite to Hong Kong legislators, and the US extending ‘safe haven’ status to Hongkongers
On democracy, the committee totally missed the point. Democracy comes in different shapes and forms. Hong Kong does not practise Westminster-style parliamentary democracy. In 1984, when the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the future of Hong Kong was signed, Hong Kong was an autocracy, with executive and legislative powers vested in the non-elected governor. But Hong Kong fared well under this executive-led system.
Contrary to the UK statement, order, stability and efficiency have returned to our legislature and to our society as a whole. It is pointless to benchmark us against the “political plurality and participation” of the UK’s system.
Our legislators are elected by electors in different constituencies and are no less representative and accountable than their counterparts in other jurisdictions. The UK does not have a monopoly on how democracy is defined. As a democratic country, it should respect other systems and treasure the opportunity to interact with legislators from other jurisdictions and learn from their experience.
Regina Ip, member, Hong Kong Legislative Council
US hypocrisy on display over ‘safe haven’ status
And let’s not forget that al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was executed by a US Navy Seals “firing squad’ without trial.
The saying “the pot calling the kettle black” comes to mind. The US’ double standards are on full display.
Ringo Yee, Tuen Mun