Hong Kong's Acting Chief Secretary for Administration Michael Suen said in Hong Kong on May 19 the Basic Law guarantees press freedom and freedom of expression in the special administrative region.

The government is determined to safeguard press freedom and freedom of expression in Hong Kong, he added.

Suen stressed that a free press and freedom of expression in Hong Kong are an integral part of the daily life and are two important cornerstones underpinning Hong Kong's success.

"Our newspapers are free to articulate their views in their own editorials every day. Members of the community can freely express their views on radio talk shows every day. Members of the Legislative Council and indeed any member of the community can freely express their views and be heard all over Hong Kong," he said.

These freedoms are also guaranteed by the relevant provisions in the Basic Law, he pointed out.

(Xinhua News Agency May 20, 2004)