Freedom of speech is the bedrock of Hong Kong and keeps the government accountable

Press freedom in Hong Kong

Letters

Published: 5:30pm, 17 Oct 2018

Why you can trust SCMP

I’m writing to respond to the article “Curbs on Hong Kong’s freedoms could suck the lifeblood out of the city” (October 13), in which Mark Clifford pointed out that the decision to deny Financial Times journalist Victor Mallet a visa extension has revived fears about Hong Kong’s post-1997 status. I agree with his point of view.

First, Hong Kong is a financial and business centre. Its very existence depends on a free flow of information and ideas.

Mallet visa denial and a missed opportunity for Hong Kong

Also, the free flow of information and freedom of speech allow Hong Kong to constantly examine its own political system. The open discussion of politics in Hong Kong is a check on the government, which is compelled to reflect on the merits of its policies. If the existing policies do not satisfy ordinary people, the government is compelled to review them. It is freedom of speech and expression that motivates Hong Kong to continue to improve itself.

Liu Sze-wai, Kwai Chung

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