May 23, 2001

HONG KONG (AP)--Hong Kong's Secretary for Security Regina Ip Wednesday disputed suggestions that Hong Kong plans to put in place laws against Falun Gong, the meditation [group] that is already banned in mainland China.

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There have been growing worries that Hong Kong could outlaw Falun Gong, after the government said "[term omitted]" are a global concern and Hong Kong must ensure its citizens and social order are protected.

Falun Gong and opposition legislators accused Ip of sidestepping mounting evidence that the government intends action against the [group], which is a legally registered organization in Hong Kong.

Falun Gong delivered a petition to the government Wednesday accusing it of "bowing to the pressure of a few leaders on the mainland and following their totalitarian order against the best interests of Hong Kong."

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