Chief Executive John Lee on Thursday said he will lead a multi-pronged promotional campaign to inform the public about new national security legislation the government aims to put in place by the end of the year.

The government has said it will table a bill to the Legislative Council to enact such legislation as required under Article 23 of the Basic Law, and a draft is expected to be unveiled soon.

The Chief Executive told lawmakers during a question-and-answer session in Legco that he believes following the social unrest of 2019, a community consensus has emerged that national security must be safeguarded.

Responding to questions about how the government would ensure people understand the new legislation so they don’t inadvertently breach it, John Lee said the government would take a systematic approach to promote the legislation and clarify any questions people have.

Lee said he, along with the justice and security secretaries would form the core team, with other officials to establish multiple new task forces to round out a comprehensive publicity effort.

He added that scholars, experts, and legislators can also do their part to help people understand the coming new law.

“Mrs Regina Ip, for example, is very good at talking to foreign media. She presents her arguments well. Mr Lai Tung-kwok, the former Secretary for Security, is also very good at explaining things. Ms Starry Lee, a member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress can also help," he said.

"There are different scholars, experts in the community. They can also help explain the spirit behind the legislation to people."

The CE also said a dedicated team would be established to counter a "smear campaign by hostile forces" over the pending legislation.

"We still try to act like a gentleman, but we need to be on our guard against hostile forces. Hostile forces want to get the most they can out of Hong Kong. And that's against our interest," he warned.