Two tales of a city: Simultaneous and consecutive interpreting in Hong Kong

This study explores the integral role of interpreting in Hong Kong, a predominantly Cantonese-speaking society that recognizes both Chinese and English as official languages. The focus is on interpreting services within the public sector, particularly within the judiciary and legislature. The study highlights the evolution of interpreting services following the handover of Hong Kong’s sovereignty in 1997, including the introduction of Mandarin interpreting at the Legislative Council (LegCo). The study further delves into the modes of interpreting used in Hong Kong’s common law courtrooms, with a particular emphasis on consecutive interpreting. The study concludes with a detailed introduction to interpreting activities in Hong Kong and a discussion on the historical background and development of interpreting services. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of interpreting in facilitating communication, language accessibility and the administration of justice in Hong Kong.