Until then, all branches of the Hong Kong Government had always stated that they were, and indeed it was widely held that that such effect was central to the 'one country, two systems principle.

[6] In October 2020, Nip announced a new rule, stating that civil servants who do not sign a declaration to uphold the Basic Law or do not swear allegiance to the Hong Kong government would risk losing future promotions.

[8] In December 2020, Nip announced that civil servants would be given a month to sign the oath, or risk being fired or ordered to retire if their service is "not in the public interest.

[14] Apple Daily revealed that senior staff, including directors and administrative officers, had also resigned at a record rate compared to before the policy had taken effect.

[15] In February 2022, Nip announced that civil servants would be required to take national security training in order to complete their probationary period.