Hong Kong LegCo has voted down the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill

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The Government said it respects the results, and will further discuss and study the issue with the Department of Justice.

With 14 votes in favour, 71 against, and one abstention, Hong Kong’s Legislative Council (LegCo) has voted down the Second Reading of the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill (the Bill) on 10 September 2025.

The Bill, gazetted by the HKSAR Government on 11 July 2025, aimed to establish an alternative framework through legislation for the legal recognition of same-sex partnerships in response to the court’s ruling, outlining the corresponding rights and obligations.

Following the vote, a spokesperson stated that the Government respects LegCo's decision and the voting results of the LegCo members. The Government will not seek an extension of the court’s suspension period, and will further discuss and study the issue with the Department of Justice.

Speaking at a media briefing on the same day, LegCo President Andrew Leung (pictured above) acknowledged the highly controversial nature of the Bill. He noted that lawmakers had spent approximately four hours deliberating before eventually voting down the Bill. He emphasised that all procedures were conducted in accordance with the Basic Law, and that the Council’s decision reflected prevailing societal views and mainstream values.

Leung added: "I believe that 'legislation' is not the only solution. Hong Kong is an inclusive city that respects the lifestyles of people of different sexual orientations. LegCo hopes to maintain open dialogue with the Government and all sectors of society to build consensus and foster conditions conducive to the orderly advancement of related issues.”

Photo / LegCo's website