; Whereas, according to the Hong Kong Bar Association, that preemptive interpretation was unnecessary and inappropriate and created the impression that the [Standing Committee] is effectively legislating for Hong Kong, thereby casting doubts on the commitment of the Central People’s Government to abide by the principles of one country, two systems ; and Whereas Hong Kong’s highly developed rule of law, independent judiciary, and respect for individual rights are fundamental to its way of life and economic prosperity: Now, therefore, be it