The government on Wednesday proposed amendments to the Trade Unions Ordinance to improve the regulatory regime and better safeguard national security.

Under the changes, the Registrar of Trade Unions could reject new registrations or amalgamations on national security grounds, with no appeal allowed.

People convicted of national security offences would be barred from becoming trade union officers or promoters, and unions would be banned from joining any external political organisations.

In order to join a non-political group outside the SAR, trade unions would have to obtain approval from the chief executive.

Unions would also have to apply to the registrar before receiving any external funds, and any approved funds could not be used for local elections.

The government also said the amendments protect employees' right and freedom to form and join trade unions in accordance with the Basic Law, the Bill of Rights Ordinance and relevant international conventions.

“[The amendments] definitely won’t hinder the development of trade unions. They will even promote a healthier development of Hong Kong's trade unions,” said Deputy Commissioner for Labour Raymond Ho.

The amendments are to be tabled to the Legislative Council in April.