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Hong Kong Bill to Enable Co-Location at Upgraded Huanggang Port Advances
Hong Kong authorities will accelerate renovation and testing at the Huanggang Port checkpoint once the Legislative Council approves the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area Bill. The measure sets the legal framework for a co-location arrangement at the border.
Jul 15, 3:31 AM·1m read1 source
South China Morning PostAudio version
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Hong Kong authorities pledged to fast-track renovation, equipment installation and testing at the upgraded Huanggang Port checkpoint, South China Morning Post reported. The Legislative Council is preparing to approve the Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area Bill this week.
Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung said the bill must be approved by July 31 to allow Hong Kong to exercise jurisdiction once the Hong Kong port area is commissioned.
The bill provides the legal basis for implementing a co-location arrangement at the border crossing. “Once we have ensured that everything is ready and the public can use the border facilities safely and smoothly, we will proceed with the formal opening,” Tang said.
He added that the government would continue to review the timing with Shenzhen and hoped to open the rebuilt port for Hong Kong and mainland residents as soon as possible.
Preparatory work after passage of the bill will include installation and testing of border control systems and facility stress tests. The Legislative Council’s House Committee is scheduled to hold a special meeting on Thursday to consider the bill and decide whether to form a bill committee for detailed scrutiny. The bill will then be tabled for second and third readings.
