Joint checkpoint at West Kowloon terminus would raise doubts about Hong Kong’s autonomy

Reading Time:1 minute

Hong Kong’s opposition lawmakers, including (from left) Tanya Chan and Eddie Chu Hoi-dick, protest against the proposed joint immigration checkpoint, in front of the West Kowloon terminus of the high-speed rail link, on February 27. Photo: David Wong

Published: 2:26pm, 3 Apr 2018Updated: 12:36pm, 15 Oct 2020

I refer to Hong Kong barristers’ comments on mainland law being applied at the joint immigration checkpoint for the West Kowloon terminus of the high-speed cross-border rail link to Guangzhou (“Bar Association raps officials for ‘flawed’ argument, says mainland laws at the joint checkpoint will affect all Hongkongers”, March 30)

I agree with the Bar Association. The Hong Kong government says mainland law will only apply to travellers in a designated area of the West Kowloon terminus. However, since the Basic Law states that national laws will only apply on matters relating to defence and foreign affairs, and “other matters outside the limits of the autonomy” of Hong Kong, if mainland law becomes applicable at the joint checkpoint, it would destroy Hong Kong’s right of autonomy.

There is no doubt that the high-speed rail can bring a lot of benefits to Hong Kong and its people, it can boost economic growth and the development of our tourism industry. But the political effect should be of utmost concern for all citizens.

Is Hong Kong ‘ceding’ land to mainland China? Fears grow after revelation joint checkpoint at rail terminus will not operate under lease

I hope the Hong Kong government would listen to the opinions of the people and rethink the joint checkpoint bill.

Kylie Wong, Lai Chi Kok