HK Seeks to Tighten Prison Visit Rules, Citing National Security

The Hong Kong authorities on July 7 presented a proposal to lawmakers to tighten prison rules to restrict visits by lawyers, religious personnel, and doctors on national security grounds, a move critics said would further undermine prisoner rights.

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HONG KONG -

In a government paper submitted to the legislature, the Security Bureau said there had been instances of prison visits being abused under the pretext of "humanitarian relief" in an attempt to influence prisoners and to "arouse their hatred" of the Chinese and Hong Kong governments.

Under the proposal, the Correctional Services Department could apply for a magistrate's warrant, giving it the right to block or impose conditions on prisoner contact with specific lawyers and doctors.

Hong Kong's mini-Constitution, or Basic Law, enshrines the legal professional privilege to safeguard confidential legal advice between lawyers and their clients, including in court and prison, and the right to choose a lawyer.