The Basic Law (BL) is the constitutional document of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). It enshrines within a legal document the important concepts of “One Country, Two Systems.” Under this principle, socialist policies of mainland China are not practiced in Hong Kong.

The Basic Law provides the guarantees to maintain Hong Kong’s existing way of life, including socioeconomic development, the rights and duties of Hong Kong people, the rule of law and other areas.

The Basic Law was put into effect July 1, 1997. 

Q1: Are Hong Kong people running Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy?

A1: Hong Kong people are running Hong Kong in all areas in accordance with the Basic Law, except for defense and foreign affairs which are matters for the Central People's Government (CPG). We do not need to seek instructions from the CPG in running our affairs. We are not even required to pay taxes to the Central Government. (BL Articles 2; 12-14; 16; 17; 19; 22; 106)      

Q2: Has the Central Government or any Mainland province interfered in the running of the HKSAR Government?

A2: No. Hong Kong has enjoyed a high degree of autonomy since reunification on July 1, 1997. In accordance with the Basic Law, the Central People's Government (CPG) has scrupulously upheld the principle of "One Country, Two Systems" and the promise of "Hong Kong people running Hong Kong."  No province, autonomous region or municipality directly under the CPG has interfered in the affairs which the HKSAR Government administers on its own in accordance with the Basic Law. (BL Articles 2; 12; 22)