Gov’t proposes Trade Union Law amendments for national security

It would expand the Registrar of Trade Unions’ powers to regulate and supervise unions.

The Labour & Welfare Bureau and the Labour Department have proposed amendments to the Trade Unions Ordinance to strengthen national security.

The proposal, submitted to the Legislative Council’s Manpower Panel, would expand the Registrar of Trade Unions’ powers to regulate and oversee unions.

Authorities said the amendments will improve the trade union regulatory framework while ensuring compliance with the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

The government said the amendments will address current trade union conditions whilst protecting workers' rights under the Basic Law and international conventions.

Labour & Welfare Secretary Chris Sun said the proposal enhances national security while improving trade union regulation and development.

The Labour Advisory Board supported the key amendments during a consultation on 22 January.

The government is seeking Legislative Council approval to move forward.