Hong Kong, Oct 9 (IANS): The National Flag and National Emblem (Amendment) Ordinance was published in the Gazette and came into effect in Hong Kong.

"The fundamental principle and spirit of this legislative amendment is 'respect' - respect our country and respect the national flag and the national emblem, which are the symbols and signs of our country," a city government spokesmansaid , adding that the amendment provides for the use, etiquette, education, and promotion in relation to the national flag and the national emblem.

Targeting persons who conduct public and intentional acts with intent to desecrate the national flag or national emblem, the revised bill has maintained and clarified the provisions regarding offenses and penalties, as punishment and deterrent, Xinhua news agency quoted the spokesman as further saying.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam has revised and published in the Gazette on Friday the stipulations for the display and use of the national flag and emblem as well as the flag and emblem.

The revisions include the addition of three specified days -- Labor Day (May 1), first day of the Lunar New Year and Constitution Day (December 4) for the display of the national flag and the Hong Kong flag.

The national flag and emblem must be displayed at the oath-taking ceremonies of the chief executive, principal officials, the judiciary, the Executive Council, the Legislative Council (LegCo), and the District Council, according to the amended bill.

The design of the national emblem must be used in the websites of the Hong Kong government, the LegCo, and the judiciary.

The Education Bureau will issue a circular to schools, providing the latest guidelines on the inclusion of the national flag and national emblem in primary and secondary education, as well as matters relating to the daily display of the national flag and the weekly conduct of the national flag-raising ceremony in schools.