Hong Kong Bar Association backs new persistent child sexual abuse offence

The Hong Kong Bar Association said it “broadly supports” a dedicated offence for persistent child sexual abuse, with vice‑chairman Martin Hui Siu‑ting noting the need for safeguards to ensure a fair trial. While the government’s current overhaul of sexual‑offence laws does not contain this specific offence, Secretary for Security Chris Tang said the administration will “actively consider” the proposal after a one‑month public consultation.

More than 6,000 public submissions were received, with over 90 % backing the broader sexual‑offences reform. Tang pledged to table a reform bill in the Legislative Council within the year and to have legislation enacted before the current administration’s term ends in June next year. Rights groups, including the Association Concerning Sexual Violence Against Women, have urged the inclusion of a specific offence to address the challenges victims face in proving repeated abuse.