Hong Kong’s domestic security law 1 month later: no arrests, no big uproar, what’s going on?
- Western diplomats in Hong Kong say foreign powers are in a ‘wait-and-see’ mode before deciding their next steps
- Source says government has shifted to ‘softer, reactive’ approach but is not planning any large-scale publicity campaigns or high-level delegations to explain law overseas
In fact, they will be among the first to feel its reach. Their hopes for an early release from prison, with the usual one-third remission of sentences for “industry and good conduct” have been dashed.
Under the new law, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, anyone imprisoned for a national security offence cannot be granted remission unless the authorities are satisfied that it will not be contrary to the interests of national security.
If, for example, they received a nine-year sentence, they could get a one-third discount for pleading guilty. With another third off for good behaviour – based on the final sentence handed down – they might serve four years in prison. Taking time on remand into account, they could have been released soon.
Article 23 changed that for them.