The Huanggang Port Hong Kong Port Area Bill was introduced to the legislature for first and second readings on Wednesday, and that was followed by a House Committee meeting a day later which completed its vetting of the bill.
Speaking at a special council meeting on Friday, Legco President Starry Lee said the legislative work showcased the efficient and positive interaction between the administration and legislature.
“I agree with the justifications the secretary for security has put forward and support the early completion of the relevant local legislative work, providing the necessary legal basis,” she said.
“This will allow all preparatory work for the opening of the Huanggang port to be rolled out at the earliest possible time, so the port can be opened as soon as possible to benefit the public.”
House Committee chairman Ronick Chan said members raised nearly 120 opinions and questions during Thursday’s special meeting.
The discussion covered various aspects including the redeveloped port’s preparation work, a timetable for its opening, contingency plans, as well as transport and telecommunication arrangements, he said.
Chan said the new Huanggang port would become the most important 24-hour land boundary-control point for those travelling between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.
“Committee members were particularly concerned about whether transport support connecting Huanggang port could meet the demand of travellers from both sides,” he said.
“They suggested that authorities should, in light of the port’s operation, increase public transport routes to and from the port to ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
“In addition, members also required that authorities introduce appropriate crowd-control and traffic-management measures to prevent traffic congestion during peak hours, which could affect the clearance efficiency.”
Lawmaker Lau Ka-keung said the new port serves as an important milestone for Hong Kong to better integrate with and serve national development.
He added that the “collaborative inspection and joint clearance” model at the port would facilitate cross-border travellers.
