When does a bill passed by the Legislative Council take effect?

A bill passed by the Legislative Council takes effect after it is signed and promulgated by the Chief Executive. This step is crucial as it represents the official endorsement of the bill, thereby putting it into law. The process ensures that the Chief Executive, who is the head of the government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, has the authority to decide whether or not to enact the legislation. Once the Chief Executive signs and promulgates the bill, it can then be implemented, making this a pivotal moment in the legislative process.

The role of the Chief Executive here reflects the constitutional structure of Hong Kong, where the Chief Executive acts as the intermediary between the Legislative Council and the implementation of laws. Other options do not accurately reflect this process, as public debate, presidential involvement, or court approval do not play a role in the immediate enactment of legislation in Hong Kong's legislative framework.