HK gov't respects judicial independence: chief executive

Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying reiterated on Tuesday that Hong Kong enjoys judicial independence, when responding to a speech made earlier by Head of Central Government's Liaison Office in Hong Kong referring to the chief executive's legal position.

Speaking ahead of the weekly Executive Council meeting, Leung said to media that Zhang Xiaoming, director of the liaison office, did not say in his speech on Saturday that Hong Kong Chief Executive's powers transcend the judiciary and Legislative Council.

What Zhang referred to was the system, including Hong Kong's political institution and law, but not a particular person, Leung said, criticizing those who made comments out of context were misleading and irresponsible.

Leung said he strongly agreed with Zhang, who said Hong Kong has an independent judiciary, adding that Hong Kong's situation is unique, as it implements "one country, two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong", and a high degree of autonomy, which cannot be found elsewhere.

Leung said Hong Kong is just a local government without complete administrative and legislative powers, so the region's actual situation must be taken into account when it comes to the concept of separation of powers that is adopted by other countries. Endi