Two former members of the now-defunct Confederation of Trade Unions on Wednesday withdrew an application to hold a Labour Day march.

In a Facebook post, former committee member Denny To said ex-leader Joe Wong had signed a document to cancel the rally, and that no further details could be revealed due to the requirement for confidentiality under the National Security Law.

Speaking to reporters in Beijing, Secretary for Security Chris Tang said scrapping the rally was the responsible thing to do.

"For the reasons of the withdrawal, I think probably you have to ask the individual organiser for the reasons. But I think if someone is unable to ensure the safety of any public order events, or to ensure the orderly running of the events, it is a responsible act to withdraw the application," he said.

Tang also brushed aside concerns that it would be more difficult for people to hold similar rallies in future, adding that the right to hold rallies and protests is protected by the Basic Law and the National Security Law.

In a statement, the police said anyone who joins an illegal public procession or meeting on Hong Kong Island on May 1 may be taking part in an unauthorised assembly, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in jail if convicted.

Officers also said they have zero tolerance for unlawful acts and will take resolute enforcement action.
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Last updated: 2023-04-26 HKT 21:30