Hundreds of Hong Kong protesters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-government-needs-effective-ways-to-address-young-peoples-concerns-china-239188">blocked train services</a> during the early morning rush hour on Tuesday, causing commuter chaos.&nbsp;

What started three months ago as rallies against an extradition bill that would have allowed people in Hong Kong to be sent to mainland China for trial, has now morphed into a wider backlash against the city's government and its political masters in Beijing.

Protests have occurred almost daily, sometimes with little notice, disrupting business, piling pressure on Hong Kong's beleaguered government and stretching the city's police force, which some have accused of using excessive force.

Watch Video:

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Activists blocked train doors, playing havoc with services and forcing hundreds of people to stream out of railway stations in search of alternative transport.

"We don't know how long we are going to stay here, we don't have a leader, as you can see this is a mass movement now," said Sharon, a 21-year-old masked protester who declined to give her full name. "It's not our intention to inconvenience people, but we have to make the authorities understand why we protest. We will continue with this as long as need."

Others chanted, "Liberate Hong Kong," and "Revolution of our Time".

By mid-morning commuters were crammed into stations across the city, waiting to board trains that were badly delayed, with no service on some lines.

Rail operator MTR Corp said urged people to seek other forms of transport, while public broadcaster RTHK reported that Transport Secretary Frank Chan had called on protesters to stop targetting a rail network that provided transport to five million people daily.

Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997, is embroiled in its worst political crisis for decades after two months of increasingly violent protests that have posed one of the gravest populist challenges to Communist Party rulers in Beijing.

China on Monday reiterated its support for Hong Kong's embattled leader, Carrie Lam, and its police and urged Hong Kong people to oppose violence.

The latest protest follows a demonstration at the Chinese-ruled city's international airport on Friday and violent protests at the weekend when activists clashed with police who fired rubber bullets, tear gas and sponge grenades - a crowd-control weapon.

Some scuffles broke out between commuters and protesters, who gradually began to disperse, while more police were deployed in train stations, where they stopped protesters to search their bags.

Commuters grew increasingly frustrated over the travel disruption, and shops, including bakeries and convenience stores, had also begun to close.

"It's so inconvenient and annoying, really. I am in hurry to work, to make a living. Will you give away your salary to me?" said a 64-year-old man surnamed Liu.

Others were more supportive, refusing to blame the protesters.

"This non cooperation movement is caused by Carrie Lam. She doesn't cooperate with the people of Hong Kong or respond to their demands," Jason Lo, 31, told Reuters as he waited for a train.

Hundreds of Hong Kong protesters blocked train services during the early morning rush hour on Tuesday, causing commuter chaos. What started three months ago as rallies against an extradition bill that would have allowed people in Hong Kong to be sent to mainland China for trial, has now morphed into a wider backlash against the city's government and its political masters in Beijing.

Hundreds of Hong Kong protesters blocked train services during the early morning rush hour on Tuesday, causing commuter chaos. What started three months ago as rallies against an extradition bill that would have allowed people in Hong Kong to be sent to mainland China for trial, has now morphed into a wider backlash against the city's government and its political masters in Beijing. Protests have occurred almost daily, sometimes with little notice, disrupting business, piling pressure on Hong Kong's beleaguered government and stretching the city's police force, which some have accused of using excessive force. Watch Video: Activists blocked train doors, playing havoc with services and forcing hundreds of people to stream out of railway stations in search of alternative transport. "We don't know how long we are going to stay here, we don't have a leader, as you can see this is a mass movement now," said Sharon, a 21-year-old masked protester who declined to give her full name. "It's not our intention to inconvenience people, but we have to make the authorities understand why we protest. We will continue with this as long as need." Others chanted, "Liberate Hong Kong," and "Revolution of our Time". By mid-morning commuters were crammed into stations across the city, waiting to board trains that were badly delayed, with no service on some lines. Rail operator MTR Corp said urged people to seek other forms of transport, while public broadcaster RTHK reported that Transport Secretary Frank Chan had called on protesters to stop targetting a rail network that provided transport to five million people daily. Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997, is embroiled in its worst political crisis for decades after two months of increasingly violent protests that have posed one of the gravest populist challenges to Communist Party rulers in Beijing. China on Monday reiterated its support for Hong Kong's embattled leader, Carrie Lam, and its police and urged Hong Kong people to oppose violence. The latest protest follows a demonstration at the Chinese-ruled city's international airport on Friday and violent protests at the weekend when activists clashed with police who fired rubber bullets, tear gas and sponge grenades - a crowd-control weapon. Some scuffles broke out between commuters and protesters, who gradually began to disperse, while more police were deployed in train stations, where they stopped protesters to search their bags. Commuters grew increasingly frustrated over the travel disruption, and shops, including bakeries and convenience stores, had also begun to close. "It's so inconvenient and annoying, really. I am in hurry to work, to make a living. Will you give away your salary to me?" said a 64-year-old man surnamed Liu. Others were more supportive, refusing to blame the protesters. "This non cooperation movement is caused by Carrie Lam. She doesn't cooperate with the people of Hong Kong or respond to their demands," Jason Lo, 31, told Reuters as he waited for a train.

Protesters block train services in Hong Kong causing commuter chaos

Protests In Hong Kong Intensify It has been over 7 weeks. But the protests in Hong Kong is showing no signs of coming to an end. In fact, the agitation is becoming bigger and more violent. China has thrown its weight behind Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam. Palki summarises

Gravitas: Violence escalates in Hong Kong

China's central government on Monday reiterated its support for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-turns-violent-chinas-top-policy-unit-to-hold-press-conference-on-monday-239094">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam</a>, as well as the city's police, and called on Hong Kong people to oppose violence following another weekend of clashes between protesters and police.

Hong Kong has been rocked by protests over the past two months against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited from the city to stand trial in Communist Party-controlled courts in mainland China.

Yang Guang, the spokesman of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of China's State Council, said he hoped people "from all walks of life in Hong Kong will clearly oppose and resist violence".

Yang said the violence, which he blamed on a "few radicals", had seriously undermined Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, and "bumped into the bottom line" of the "one country, two systems" principle that governs the financial hub.

"No civilised society or rule of law society will tolerate rampant violence," Yang said at an extraordinary press conference.

"We hope that the general public will clearly understand the seriousness of the current state of affairs and jointly denounce the bad actions and crimes committed by radicals, and prevent them from harming Hong Kong," he said.

China's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-defy-police-again-begin-banned-march-238981">Hong Kong and Macao Affairs</a> Office of the State Council said at a media briefing in Beijing that Hong Kong's government and society needed to come up with more effective ways to help young people address concerns over housing, employment and other issues.

Hong Kong police clashed with thousands of protesters on Sunday, as they sought to defend China's main representative office from crowds seething over what many see as an increasing cycle of violence against them.

Watch Video:

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Protests over the past two months spearheaded by anti-government activists against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited from the city to stand trial in courts in mainland China have grown increasingly violent.

"We also believe that Hong Kong's top priority task right now is to punish violent and unlawful acts in accordance with the law, to restore social order as soon as possible, and to maintain a good business environment," said another Hong Kong affairs spokeswoman, Xu Luying, at the press conference.

A march on Saturday against an assault the previous weekend by suspected triad gang members ended in violent turmoil as riot police waded in to disperse crowds.

On Sunday, a peaceful gathering in a park in the city's central business district rapidly morphed into a march, as tens of thousands of black-clad protesters set off in several directions, clogging up major thoroughfares.

Thousands of people headed east, towards the shopping district of Causeway Bay, while another large contingent headed west, towards the Chinese government's representative office, known as the Central Government Liaison Office.

There, hundreds of riot police blocked activists from advancing towards the building, which had been heavily fortified with barricades after it was surrounded and defaced a week earlier. A clear plastic shield had been erected around a national emblem above its front doors.

As the crowds surged, hundreds of riot police with shields advanced, firing rounds of tear gas, rubber bullets and sponge grenades - a crowd-control weapon - at protesters, sending clouds of acrid, burning smoke through the streets.

(Inputs: Reuters, AFP)

&nbsp;

China's central government on Monday reiterated its support for Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, as well as the city's police, and called on Hong Kong people to oppose violence following another weekend of clashes between protesters and police.

China's central government on Monday reiterated its support for Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, as well as the city's police, and called on Hong Kong people to oppose violence following another weekend of clashes between protesters and police. Hong Kong has been rocked by protests over the past two months against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited from the city to stand trial in Communist Party-controlled courts in mainland China. Yang Guang, the spokesman of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of China's State Council, said he hoped people "from all walks of life in Hong Kong will clearly oppose and resist violence". Yang said the violence, which he blamed on a "few radicals", had seriously undermined Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, and "bumped into the bottom line" of the "one country, two systems" principle that governs the financial hub. "No civilised society or rule of law society will tolerate rampant violence," Yang said at an extraordinary press conference. "We hope that the general public will clearly understand the seriousness of the current state of affairs and jointly denounce the bad actions and crimes committed by radicals, and prevent them from harming Hong Kong," he said. China's Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council said at a media briefing in Beijing that Hong Kong's government and society needed to come up with more effective ways to help young people address concerns over housing, employment and other issues. Hong Kong police clashed with thousands of protesters on Sunday, as they sought to defend China's main representative office from crowds seething over what many see as an increasing cycle of violence against them. Watch Video: Protests over the past two months spearheaded by anti-government activists against a proposed bill that would allow people to be extradited from the city to stand trial in courts in mainland China have grown increasingly violent. "We also believe that Hong Kong's top priority task right now is to punish violent and unlawful acts in accordance with the law, to restore social order as soon as possible, and to maintain a good business environment," said another Hong Kong affairs spokeswoman, Xu Luying, at the press conference. A march on Saturday against an assault the previous weekend by suspected triad gang members ended in violent turmoil as riot police waded in to disperse crowds. On Sunday, a peaceful gathering in a park in the city's central business district rapidly morphed into a march, as tens of thousands of black-clad protesters set off in several directions, clogging up major thoroughfares. Thousands of people headed east, towards the shopping district of Causeway Bay, while another large contingent headed west, towards the Chinese government's representative office, known as the Central Government Liaison Office. There, hundreds of riot police blocked activists from advancing towards the building, which had been heavily fortified with barricades after it was surrounded and defaced a week earlier. A clear plastic shield had been erected around a national emblem above its front doors. As the crowds surged, hundreds of riot police with shields advanced, firing rounds of tear gas, rubber bullets and sponge grenades - a crowd-control weapon - at protesters, sending clouds of acrid, burning smoke through the streets. (Inputs: Reuters, AFP)

Hong Kong government needs effective ways to address young people's concerns: China

After protesters lay siege to Hong Kong's airport <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-calling-for-free-hong-kong-converge-on-airport-238572">chanting ant-China slogans</a>, China's foreign ministry said Hong Kong belongs to China and it will not allow foreign forces to interfere.

PLA troops are performing defensive duties in Hong Kong, they are key to Hong Kong's stability," China's foreign ministry said.

"I also want to emphasise that since the reunification of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong garrison has strictly abide by Hong Kong's Basic Law and Garrison Law, and faithfully fulfilling its duties of defence. They have become the guardian for maintaining Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability," the ministry spokesman said.

"We have already said that Hong Kong is&nbsp;China's Hong Kong and will never allow any foreign forces to intervene in any way."

"I recommend those who try to 'lead the wolf into the room' to study the history -- since when have those who colluded with external forces to create problems for a country come to a good end?" China foreign ministry spokesperson&nbsp;Hua Chunying said.

Watch Video:

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On Friday, protesters shouting "free Hong Kong" made their way to the airport calling on the Chinese government to withdraw the extradition bill which has become a bone of contention with protests and violence seen on the city streets for the past two months.

As the protesters gathered at the airport, Singapore urged its citizens in a travel advisory on Friday to avoid parts of Hong Kong where protests may be taking place. Some protesters were seen handing out flyers explaining the city's crisis to tourists.&nbsp;

"Protests which are meant to be peaceful may still have the potential to turn violent with little or no notice," it warned citizens.&nbsp;

The Flight Attendants' Union for Hong Kong's main carrier Cathay Pacific had earlier urged its members to "stand up for our human rights and be connected with the rest of the HongKongers" on its Facebook page.

"United Hong Kong Stands!" it added. Reports said Cathay Pacific staff members attended the demonstrations

Meanwhile, reports added that Hong Kong is bracing itself for another weekend of rallies.

The police have banned a planned Saturday protest as authorities grapple with huge demonstrations which has disrupted normal life in the former British colony.

After protesters lay siege to Hong Kong's airport chanting ant-China slogans, China's foreign ministry said Hong Kong belongs to China and it will not allow foreign forces to interfere.

After protesters lay siege to Hong Kong's airport chanting ant-China slogans, China's foreign ministry said Hong Kong belongs to China and it will not allow foreign forces to interfere. PLA troops are performing defensive duties in Hong Kong, they are key to Hong Kong's stability," China's foreign ministry said. "I also want to emphasise that since the reunification of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong garrison has strictly abide by Hong Kong's Basic Law and Garrison Law, and faithfully fulfilling its duties of defence. They have become the guardian for maintaining Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability," the ministry spokesman said. "We have already said that Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong and will never allow any foreign forces to intervene in any way." "I recommend those who try to 'lead the wolf into the room' to study the history -- since when have those who colluded with external forces to create problems for a country come to a good end?" China foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said. Watch Video: On Friday, protesters shouting "free Hong Kong" made their way to the airport calling on the Chinese government to withdraw the extradition bill which has become a bone of contention with protests and violence seen on the city streets for the past two months. As the protesters gathered at the airport, Singapore urged its citizens in a travel advisory on Friday to avoid parts of Hong Kong where protests may be taking place. Some protesters were seen handing out flyers explaining the city's crisis to tourists. "Protests which are meant to be peaceful may still have the potential to turn violent with little or no notice," it warned citizens. The Flight Attendants' Union for Hong Kong's main carrier Cathay Pacific had earlier urged its members to "stand up for our human rights and be connected with the rest of the HongKongers" on its Facebook page. "United Hong Kong Stands!" it added. Reports said Cathay Pacific staff members attended the demonstrations Meanwhile, reports added that Hong Kong is bracing itself for another weekend of rallies. The police have banned a planned Saturday protest as authorities grapple with huge demonstrations which has disrupted normal life in the former British colony.

Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong, will never allow any foreign forces to intervene: Foreign ministry

China said on Tuesday that US officials were behind violent chaos in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-praises-china-response-to-hong-kong-protests-237818">Hong Kong and warned against interference</a>, following a series of protests in the city, including bloody clashes on the weekend.

"We can see that US&nbsp;officials are even behind such incidents," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying at a regular press briefing on Tuesday.

She was referring to violence related to weeks of protests spearheaded by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-violated-one-country-two-systems-bottom-line-china-foreign-ministry-237656">pro-democracy activists</a> against a bill that would allow people to be extradited from the city to stand trial in courts in mainland China.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-is-china-working-behind-the-scenes-237792/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"So can the officials tell the world what role did they play and what are their aims?” Hua asked.

On Sunday, groups of men in white t-shirts, who opposition politicians suspect were linked to Hong Kong criminal gangs, assaulted some pro-democracy protesters, after some protesters had vandalised Beijing's main office in the city.

Hua, asked about criticism of violence by the United States and Hong Kong's former colonial ruler, Britain, said China would not tolerate any interference.

"The US&nbsp;should know one thing, that Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong, and we do not allow any foreign interference," she said.

"We advise the US&nbsp;to withdraw their black hands."

US President Donald Trump HAD said on Monday that he believed Chinese President Xi Jinping has acted very responsibly with regard to the protests.

The financial hub returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula that allows freedoms not enjoyed in the mainland, including freedom to protest and an independent judiciary.

But many in Hong Kong resent what they see as Beijing's creeping control and its refusal to let its residents directly elect their leader.

China denies interfering in Hong Kong and has warned that the violent protests over the proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China were an "undisguised challenge" to the formula under which it is ruled. 
&nbsp;

China said on Tuesday that US officials were behind violent chaos in Hong Kong and warned against interference, following a series of protests in the city, including bloody clashes on the weekend.

China said on Tuesday that US officials were behind violent chaos in Hong Kong and warned against interference, following a series of protests in the city, including bloody clashes on the weekend. "We can see that US officials are even behind such incidents," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying at a regular press briefing on Tuesday. She was referring to violence related to weeks of protests spearheaded by pro-democracy activists against a bill that would allow people to be extradited from the city to stand trial in courts in mainland China. "So can the officials tell the world what role did they play and what are their aims?” Hua asked. On Sunday, groups of men in white t-shirts, who opposition politicians suspect were linked to Hong Kong criminal gangs, assaulted some pro-democracy protesters, after some protesters had vandalised Beijing's main office in the city. Hua, asked about criticism of violence by the United States and Hong Kong's former colonial ruler, Britain, said China would not tolerate any interference. "The US should know one thing, that Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong, and we do not allow any foreign interference," she said. "We advise the US to withdraw their black hands." US President Donald Trump HAD said on Monday that he believed Chinese President Xi Jinping has acted very responsibly with regard to the protests. The financial hub returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula that allows freedoms not enjoyed in the mainland, including freedom to protest and an independent judiciary. But many in Hong Kong resent what they see as Beijing's creeping control and its refusal to let its residents directly elect their leader. China denies interfering in Hong Kong and has warned that the violent protests over the proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China were an "undisguised challenge" to the formula under which it is ruled.

US should know one thing that Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong, do not interfere: Foreign ministry

China reacted furiously on Monday to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protest-anger-soars-as-45-people-gets-injured-in-yuen-long-train-station-mob-attack-237553"> anti-government protesters vandalising the walls</a> of the Beijing representative's office in Hong Kong and defacing the national emblem.

Thousands of masked pro-democracy demonstrators briefly occupied the road outside China's Liaison Office in the semi-autonomous city Sunday night and targeted the building with eggs, projectiles, laser lights and graffiti in a stark rebuke to Beijing's rule.

China's&nbsp;foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang reacting to the protest said the behaviour of some "radical" Hong Kong protesters violates the bottom line of the "One Country, Two Systems" formula through which Beijing administers the territory, news agency Reuters reported.

Hong Kong has been shaken by massive, sometimes violent, protests initially organised to oppose a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

It has now morphed into a wider and sometimes violent movement for democratic reforms.

Protesters have vowed to sustain their movement until their core demands,&nbsp; including universal suffrage and the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, are met.

So far, Beijing has refused to budge. Officials and state media have accused the protesters of playing into the hands of foreign powers who seek to harm China and backed the Hong Kong government.

Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out.

Meanwhile, strongly condemning the anti-government protests,&nbsp;Lam said the targeting of the office was a "challenge" to national sovereignty.

She also described as "shocking" an apparent attack by organised triad criminal gangs on ordinary citizens and protesters at a train station on Sunday, saying authorities would investigate fully.

China reacted furiously on Monday to anti-government protesters vandalising the walls of the Beijing representative's office in Hong Kong and defacing the national emblem.

China reacted furiously on Monday to anti-government protesters vandalising the walls of the Beijing representative's office in Hong Kong and defacing the national emblem. Thousands of masked pro-democracy demonstrators briefly occupied the road outside China's Liaison Office in the semi-autonomous city Sunday night and targeted the building with eggs, projectiles, laser lights and graffiti in a stark rebuke to Beijing's rule. China's foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang reacting to the protest said the behaviour of some "radical" Hong Kong protesters violates the bottom line of the "One Country, Two Systems" formula through which Beijing administers the territory, news agency Reuters reported. Hong Kong has been shaken by massive, sometimes violent, protests initially organised to oppose a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. It has now morphed into a wider and sometimes violent movement for democratic reforms. Protesters have vowed to sustain their movement until their core demands, including universal suffrage and the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, are met. So far, Beijing has refused to budge. Officials and state media have accused the protesters of playing into the hands of foreign powers who seek to harm China and backed the Hong Kong government. Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill, there have been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out. Meanwhile, strongly condemning the anti-government protests, Lam said the targeting of the office was a "challenge" to national sovereignty. She also described as "shocking" an apparent attack by organised triad criminal gangs on ordinary citizens and protesters at a train station on Sunday, saying authorities would investigate fully.

Hong Kong protesters violated 'One Country, Two Systems' bottom line: China Foreign Ministry

Hong Kong is bracing for another huge <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-supporters-rally-in-hong-kong-to-seek-end-to-violence-237282">anti-government march</a> on Sunday afternoon with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub, sparked by years of rising anger over Beijing's rule.

The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

The initial protests were lit by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous financial hub.

In a city unaccustomed to such upheaval, police have fired tear gas and rubber bullets while the parliament has been trashed by protesters -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997.

Security tightened

Sunday's rally -- which will follow a now well-trodden route through the main island's streets -- will be the seventh weekend in a row that protesters have come out en masse.

Generally the marches have passed off peacefully but are followed by violence between riot police and small groups of more hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

Security was tightened in the city centre, with metal street fencing often used by protesters to build barricades removed ahead of the march, and large water-filled barriers thrown up around the police headquarters.

The huge crowds have had little luck persuading the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future.&nbsp;

Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders.

Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people.

Acrimony deepening

Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met, such as the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty and permanent withdrawal of the bill.

Yet there is little sign that either Lam or Beijing are willing to budge.&nbsp;

Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there has been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out.

Earlier this week the South China Morning Post reported that Beijing was drawing up a plan to deal with Hong Kong, citing sources on the mainland.&nbsp;

But the details that were published suggested little appetite to defuse public anger over sliding freedoms and instead focused on shoring up support for Lam and the police. &nbsp;

On Saturday, the establishment mustered its own supporters in their tens of thousands for a rally, a gathering that was covered in detail by Chinese state media and pro-Beijing newspapers in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Few see a political solution to the crisis on the horizon.

Steve Vickers, a former head of the police's Criminal Investigation Bureau before the handover who now runs a risk consultancy, said the public order situation would likely "worsen" in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

"Polarisation within Hong Kong society and intense acrimony between protesters and police are deepening," he wrote in a note to clients.

"The protests are settling into a pattern of peaceful demonstration culminating in deliberately orchestrated violence, before a lull in preparation for the next 'battle'," he added.

Hong Kong is bracing for another huge anti-government march on Sunday afternoon with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub, sparked by years of rising anger over Beijing's rule.

Hong Kong is bracing for another huge anti-government march on Sunday afternoon with seemingly no end in sight to the turmoil engulfing the finance hub, sparked by years of rising anger over Beijing's rule. The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by weeks of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The initial protests were lit by a now-suspended bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. But they have since evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms, universal suffrage and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous financial hub. In a city unaccustomed to such upheaval, police have fired tear gas and rubber bullets while the parliament has been trashed by protesters -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997. Security tightened Sunday's rally -- which will follow a now well-trodden route through the main island's streets -- will be the seventh weekend in a row that protesters have come out en masse. Generally the marches have passed off peacefully but are followed by violence between riot police and small groups of more hardcore protesters. Security was tightened in the city centre, with metal street fencing often used by protesters to build barricades removed ahead of the march, and large water-filled barriers thrown up around the police headquarters. The huge crowds have had little luck persuading the city's unelected leaders -- or Beijing -- to change tack on the hub's future. Under the 1997 handover deal with Britain, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say those provisions are already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of pro-democracy protest leaders. Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people. Acrimony deepening Protesters have vowed to keep their movement going until their core demands are met, such as the resignation of city leader Carrie Lam, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty and permanent withdrawal of the bill. Yet there is little sign that either Lam or Beijing are willing to budge. Beyond agreeing to suspend the extradition bill there has been few other concessions and fears are rising that Beijing's patience is running out. Earlier this week the South China Morning Post reported that Beijing was drawing up a plan to deal with Hong Kong, citing sources on the mainland. But the details that were published suggested little appetite to defuse public anger over sliding freedoms and instead focused on shoring up support for Lam and the police. On Saturday, the establishment mustered its own supporters in their tens of thousands for a rally, a gathering that was covered in detail by Chinese state media and pro-Beijing newspapers in Hong Kong. Few see a political solution to the crisis on the horizon. Steve Vickers, a former head of the police's Criminal Investigation Bureau before the handover who now runs a risk consultancy, said the public order situation would likely "worsen" in the coming weeks. "Polarisation within Hong Kong society and intense acrimony between protesters and police are deepening," he wrote in a note to clients. "The protests are settling into a pattern of peaceful demonstration culminating in deliberately orchestrated violence, before a lull in preparation for the next 'battle'," he added.

Hong Kong braces for fresh anti-government march

Thousands of protesters descended on China’s representative office in Hong Kong, as anger over an extradition bill morphs into a fresh front. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Thousands protest for complete withdrawal of extradition bill

Hong Kong police on Saturday said they had uncovered a makeshift factory producing high-powered explosives alongside pro-independence leaflets, a discovery which comes as the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-supporters-rally-in-hong-kong-to-seek-end-to-violence-237282"> city is rocked by unprecedented political protests</a>.

Police said they swooped on an industrial building in the district of Tsuen Wan on Friday evening and arrested a 27-year-old man.

"We are dealing with a homemade laboratory for the manufacture of high explosive, specifically TATP," Superintendent Alick McWhirter, a bomb squad specialist, told reporters on Saturday.

"This is an extremely sensitive and extremely powerful high explosive. It will cause exceptional amounts of damage when used," he added.

TATP requires skill to manufacture but has been used in a number of major terror attacks, including the 2005 London suicide bombings and the recent deadly Easter attacks on hotels and churches in Sri Lanka earlier this year.

McWhirter said his team had carried out at least one controlled explosion and expected to do more because the TATP they had discovered was volatile.

Items also displayed by police after the raid included a T-shirt with the logo of the Hong Kong National Front, a pro-independence group, as well as leaflets related to huge anti-government protests currently engulfing the international finance hub.

The Hong Kong National Front, a small fringe group, released a statement on Facebook saying the man arrested was a member but added it had no knowledge of any explosives.&nbsp;

In November 2017, two members of a fringe independent group were found guilty of making explosives and were jailed.

Under the 1997 handover deal with the British, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech.

But many say that 50-year deal is already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of democracy protest leaders.

Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people.

A small number of pro-independence groups have since emerged but they remain fringe elements with little popular support. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong police on Saturday said they had uncovered a makeshift factory producing high-powered explosives alongside pro-independence leaflets, a discovery which comes as the city is rocked by unprecedented political protests.

Hong Kong police on Saturday said they had uncovered a makeshift factory producing high-powered explosives alongside pro-independence leaflets, a discovery which comes as the city is rocked by unprecedented political protests. Police said they swooped on an industrial building in the district of Tsuen Wan on Friday evening and arrested a 27-year-old man. "We are dealing with a homemade laboratory for the manufacture of high explosive, specifically TATP," Superintendent Alick McWhirter, a bomb squad specialist, told reporters on Saturday. "This is an extremely sensitive and extremely powerful high explosive. It will cause exceptional amounts of damage when used," he added. TATP requires skill to manufacture but has been used in a number of major terror attacks, including the 2005 London suicide bombings and the recent deadly Easter attacks on hotels and churches in Sri Lanka earlier this year. McWhirter said his team had carried out at least one controlled explosion and expected to do more because the TATP they had discovered was volatile. Items also displayed by police after the raid included a T-shirt with the logo of the Hong Kong National Front, a pro-independence group, as well as leaflets related to huge anti-government protests currently engulfing the international finance hub. The Hong Kong National Front, a small fringe group, released a statement on Facebook saying the man arrested was a member but added it had no knowledge of any explosives. In November 2017, two members of a fringe independent group were found guilty of making explosives and were jailed. Under the 1997 handover deal with the British, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and freedom of speech. But many say that 50-year deal is already being curtailed, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of democracy protest leaders. Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people. A small number of pro-independence groups have since emerged but they remain fringe elements with little popular support.

Hong Kong police uncover 'homemade explosive lab'

Hong Kong activists gathered to protest against mainland Chinese traders in a town near the border on Saturday, seeking to channel energy from huge demonstrations against an extradition bill to another problem they say the government has mismanaged.

The planned protest in Sheung Shui is the latest in a string of demonstrations that have roiled the former British colony for more than a month, fuelling its biggest political crisis since China regained control of the territory in 1997.

Millions of people have taken part in street protests, with hundreds even storming the legislature on July 1, against the now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects in Hong Kong to be sent to China to face trial.

Critics see the bill as a threat to Hong Kong's rule of law. Chief Executive Carrie Lam suspended the bill last month in the face of opposition and this week said it was "dead", but opponents say they will settle for nothing short of its formal withdrawal.

Most of the protests have taken place in and around Hong Kong's central business district, but recently demonstrators have turned their sights to parts of the territory that have seen less political activity. They have also sought to broaden support for the movement by focusing on narrower, more domestic issues.

Last Saturday, nearly 2,000 people marched in the residential district of Tuen Mun to protest against middle-aged mainland women they accused of brashly singing and dancing to pop songs in Mandarin, which many locals considered a nuisance.

Tens of thousands of protesters staged an anti-extradition march the next day through one of the most popular tourist shopping areas in Kowloon, where they tried to win support from mainland Chinese tourists.

On Saturday, the focus again turned away from downtown Hong Kong to Sheung Shui, a town close to the border where so-called "parallel traders" from the mainland buy bulk quantities of duty-free goods which they then carry into China to sell.

The small-time mainland traders have long been a source of anger among some in Hong Kong who argue that they have fuelled inflation, dodged taxes, diluted the town's identity and caused a spike in property prices.

Jimmy Sham, the convener of the Civil Human Rights Front, which has organised a string of major protests against the extradition bill, said the root problem was Hong Kong's lack of full democracy.

"The government, Carrie Lam, some legislators in functional constituencies are not elected by the people, so there are many escalating actions in different districts to reflect different social issues," he said.

"If political problems are not solved, social well-being issues will continue to emerge endlessly."

When Britain returned Hong Kong to China in 1997, Chinese Communist leaders promised the city a high degree of autonomy for 50 years. But many say China has progressively tightened its grip, putting Hong Kong's freedoms under threat through a range of measures such as the extradition bill.

Anti-extradition protesters were planning another demonstration on Sunday in the town of Sha Tin, in the so-called New Territories between Hong Kong island and the border with China.

Hong Kong activists gathered to protest against mainland Chinese traders in a town near the border on Saturday, seeking to channel energy from huge demonstrations against an extradition bill to another problem they say the government has mismanaged.

Hong Kong activists gathered to protest against mainland Chinese traders in a town near the border on Saturday, seeking to channel energy from huge demonstrations against an extradition bill to another problem they say the government has mismanaged. The planned protest in Sheung Shui is the latest in a string of demonstrations that have roiled the former British colony for more than a month, fuelling its biggest political crisis since China regained control of the territory in 1997. Millions of people have taken part in street protests, with hundreds even storming the legislature on July 1, against the now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects in Hong Kong to be sent to China to face trial. Critics see the bill as a threat to Hong Kong's rule of law. Chief Executive Carrie Lam suspended the bill last month in the face of opposition and this week said it was "dead", but opponents say they will settle for nothing short of its formal withdrawal. Most of the protests have taken place in and around Hong Kong's central business district, but recently demonstrators have turned their sights to parts of the territory that have seen less political activity. They have also sought to broaden support for the movement by focusing on narrower, more domestic issues. Last Saturday, nearly 2,000 people marched in the residential district of Tuen Mun to protest against middle-aged mainland women they accused of brashly singing and dancing to pop songs in Mandarin, which many locals considered a nuisance. Tens of thousands of protesters staged an anti-extradition march the next day through one of the most popular tourist shopping areas in Kowloon, where they tried to win support from mainland Chinese tourists. On Saturday, the focus again turned away from downtown Hong Kong to Sheung Shui, a town close to the border where so-called "parallel traders" from the mainland buy bulk quantities of duty-free goods which they then carry into China to sell. The small-time mainland traders have long been a source of anger among some in Hong Kong who argue that they have fuelled inflation, dodged taxes, diluted the town's identity and caused a spike in property prices. Jimmy Sham, the convener of the Civil Human Rights Front, which has organised a string of major protests against the extradition bill, said the root problem was Hong Kong's lack of full democracy. "The government, Carrie Lam, some legislators in functional constituencies are not elected by the people, so there are many escalating actions in different districts to reflect different social issues," he said. "If political problems are not solved, social well-being issues will continue to emerge endlessly." When Britain returned Hong Kong to China in 1997, Chinese Communist leaders promised the city a high degree of autonomy for 50 years. But many say China has progressively tightened its grip, putting Hong Kong's freedoms under threat through a range of measures such as the extradition bill. Anti-extradition protesters were planning another demonstration on Sunday in the town of Sha Tin, in the so-called New Territories between Hong Kong island and the border with China.

Hong Kong protesters take aim at Chinese traders

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday the extradition bill that sparked the territory's biggest political crisis in decades was dead, admitting that the government's work on the bill had been a "total failure". The bill, which would have allowed people in Hong Kong to be sent to mainland China to face trial, sparked huge and at times violent street protests and plunged the former British colony into turmoil. In mid-June Lam responded to huge protests by suspending the bill, but that move failed to mollify critics, who continued to demonstrate against the bill and call for Lam's resignation. Hong Kong was returned to China from Britain in 1997.

Hong Kong bows to public pressure, drops extradition bill

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extradition-bill-is-dead-no-plans-to-restart-legislation-hong-kong-chief-executive-carrie-lam-234142">Extradition bill is dead, no plans to restart legislation: Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam</a>

Hong Kong's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam announced on Tuesday that proposal to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland "is dead" -- but she again stopped short of protester demands to immediately withdraw the bill.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-possible-22-billion-arms-sale-to-taiwan-amid-tension-with-china-234130">US approves possible $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan amid tension with China</a>

The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kevin-spacey-sexual-assault-case-may-get-dropped-accuser-could-be-forced-to-testify-about-missing-phone-234144">Kevin Spacey sexual assault case may get dropped, accuser could be forced to testify about missing phone</a>

There's been an unexpected twist to Kevin Spacey's sexual assault case. The man who accused the American actor of groping him at a bar in 2016 may now be forced to testify about his allegedly missing cell phone and the assault case against Spacey might just get dismissed due to the missing phone.&nbsp; 
The former `House of Cards` star`s defense attorneys claimed that they require the phone in order to recover text messages that they allege the accuser deleted that would bolster Spacey`s case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-offers-full-support-to-us-ambassador-trump-lashes-out-at-theresa-may-after-leak-of-damning-cables-234128">UK offers 'full support' to US ambassador, Trump lashes out at Theresa May after leak of damning cables</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May's government on Monday reiterated its "full support" for its ambassador to Washington after US President Donald Trump said he would no longer deal with him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-prosecutors-seek-death-penalty-for-man-involved-in-calculated-murder-of-chinese-student-234135">US prosecutors seek death penalty for man involved in 'calculated' murder of Chinese student</a>

US prosecutors argued on Monday that an Illinois man who raped and murdered a Chinese graduate student two years ago should be executed, and called on her heartbroken fiance and friends to tell the jury about the victim's kind, optimistic nature.

Extradition bill is dead, no plans to restart legislation: Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam Hong Kong's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam announced on Tuesday that proposal to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland "is dead" -- but she again stopped short of protester demands to immediately withdraw the bill.

Extradition bill is dead, no plans to restart legislation: Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam Hong Kong's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam announced on Tuesday that proposal to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland "is dead" -- but she again stopped short of protester demands to immediately withdraw the bill. US approves possible $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan amid tension with China The US State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of M1A2T Abrams tanks, Stinger missiles and related equipment at an estimated value of $2.2 billion, the Pentagon said on Monday, despite Chinese criticism of the deal. Kevin Spacey sexual assault case may get dropped, accuser could be forced to testify about missing phone There's been an unexpected twist to Kevin Spacey's sexual assault case. The man who accused the American actor of groping him at a bar in 2016 may now be forced to testify about his allegedly missing cell phone and the assault case against Spacey might just get dismissed due to the missing phone. The former `House of Cards` star`s defense attorneys claimed that they require the phone in order to recover text messages that they allege the accuser deleted that would bolster Spacey`s case. UK offers 'full support' to US ambassador, Trump lashes out at Theresa May after leak of damning cables British Prime Minister Theresa May's government on Monday reiterated its "full support" for its ambassador to Washington after US President Donald Trump said he would no longer deal with him. US prosecutors seek death penalty for man involved in 'calculated' murder of Chinese student US prosecutors argued on Monday that an Illinois man who raped and murdered a Chinese graduate student two years ago should be executed, and called on her heartbroken fiance and friends to tell the jury about the victim's kind, optimistic nature.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Hong Kong's pro-Beijing leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-moot-bank-of-china-stress-test-after-latest-clashes-234031">Carrie Lam announced on Tuesday </a>that proposal to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland "is dead" -- but she again stopped short of protester demands to immediately withdraw the bill.

"There are still lingering doubts about the government's sincerity or worries (about) whether the government will restart the process with the Legislative Council. So I reiterate here, there is no such plan. The bill is dead," Hong Kong's chief executive said.&nbsp;

The move comes after fresh protests on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-bid-to-keep-up-pressure-on-citys-pro-beijing-leaders-hong-kong-protesters-take-aim-at-china-station-233724">Sunday night led to the arrest </a>of five people on Monday afternoon.

The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history following a month of huge marches as well as separate violent confrontations with police involving a minority of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

The rallies were sparked by a now-suspended law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory.

Sunday night saw fresh political violence break out in the district of Mongkok as police baton-charged small groups of masked, largely young protesters who were walking along roads and refused to disperse following another massive, peaceful rally earlier in the day.

In a statement issued early Monday morning, police said the group were taking part in an "unlawful assembly" and had been warned that officers would take action.&nbsp;

Protesters demanded the extradition bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police use of tear gas and rubber bullets, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down.

They have also demanded authorities stop characterising protesters as "rioters", a definition that carries much steeper jail terms.

Hong Kong's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam announced on Tuesday that proposal to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland "is dead" -- but she again stopped short of protester demands to immediately withdraw the bill.

Hong Kong's pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam announced on Tuesday that proposal to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland "is dead" -- but she again stopped short of protester demands to immediately withdraw the bill. "There are still lingering doubts about the government's sincerity or worries (about) whether the government will restart the process with the Legislative Council. So I reiterate here, there is no such plan. The bill is dead," Hong Kong's chief executive said. The move comes after fresh protests on Sunday night led to the arrest of five people on Monday afternoon. The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history following a month of huge marches as well as separate violent confrontations with police involving a minority of hardcore protesters. The rallies were sparked by a now-suspended law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory. Sunday night saw fresh political violence break out in the district of Mongkok as police baton-charged small groups of masked, largely young protesters who were walking along roads and refused to disperse following another massive, peaceful rally earlier in the day. In a statement issued early Monday morning, police said the group were taking part in an "unlawful assembly" and had been warned that officers would take action. Protesters demanded the extradition bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police use of tear gas and rubber bullets, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down. They have also demanded authorities stop characterising protesters as "rioters", a definition that carries much steeper jail terms.

Extradition bill is dead, no plans to restart legislation: Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam

Hong Kong protesters not appeased by Lam's 'word games.' Demonstrators vow to organize more protests. Protesters said that Lam din't use word 'withdraw in her speech.' Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong Protesters Reject Lam's Declaration

Hong Kong's embattled pro-Beijing leader on Tuesday said a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extradition-bill-is-dead-no-plans-to-restart-legislation-hong-kong-chief-executive-carrie-lam-234142">China extradition bill that sparked</a> unprecedented political unrest "is dead" -- but protesters immediately dismissed her comments, threatening more mass rallies.

The international finance hub has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by a month of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. &nbsp;

The rallies were sparked by a draft law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. But they have morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory.

In a city unaccustomed to such upheaval, police have fired tear gas and rubber bullets while the parliament has been trashed by protesters -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997.

On Tuesday the city's chief executive Carrie Lam admitted her administration's attempt to introduce the bill was a "complete failure", saying that her government would not seek to reactivate it in parliament.&nbsp;

"There is no such plan. The bill is dead," Lam said.&nbsp;

But she once against refused to buckle to demands to completely withdraw the bill from the legislative agenda, provoking outcry from the anti-government camp.&nbsp;

Lam's words about the bill are "another ridiculous lie" tweeted leading democracy activist Joshua Wong, who was recently released from jail for his role in protests in 2014.

"The bill still exists in the 'legislative programme' until July next year."&nbsp;

The Civil Human Rights Front -- which has organised some of the mass rallies -- said it would announce fresh protests over the coming days.

With calls mounting for her resignation, Lam has made few public appearances in recent weeks.&nbsp;

But on Tuesday she resurfaced, agreeing to meet student protesters and adding that she recognised the swirling economic, political and social challenges facing the city.&nbsp;

"I come to the conclusion that there are some fundamental and deep-seated problems in Hong Kong society," she said.&nbsp;

Lam has been under pressure to appoint an independent judge as head of a public commission of inquiry into the police response to the protests.

But she rejected those calls again on Tuesday, backing an existing police complaints body to investigate claims of excessive force.

The anti-extradition movement has united an unlikely cross-section of Hong Kong society, including major business, legal bodies as well as religious leaders, activists and journalists.

Protesters are becoming increasingly creative -- chat forums and encrypted messenger apps are buzzing with calls for the mass withdrawal of funds from the Bank of China this Saturday to "stress test" the organisation's liquidity.

Beijing has thrown its full support behind Lam, calling on police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes.

Over the weekend its ambassador to London said the extradition bill was needed to "plug loopholes", fuelling fears Beijing still wants the legislation to pass.

The protests are also part of a longer battle for the soul of Hong Kong between those who see full integration with the autocratic mainland as an inevitability and others wishing to preserve the city's unique freedoms and culture.&nbsp;

Under the 1997 handover deal with the British, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and rights like freedom of speech.

But many say that 50-year deal is already being reneged on, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of democracy protest leaders.

Hong Kong's embattled pro-Beijing leader on Tuesday said a China extradition bill that sparked unprecedented political unrest "is dead" -- but protesters immediately dismissed her comments, threatening more mass rallies.

Hong Kong's embattled pro-Beijing leader on Tuesday said a China extradition bill that sparked unprecedented political unrest "is dead" -- but protesters immediately dismissed her comments, threatening more mass rallies. The international finance hub has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history by a month of marches and sporadic violent confrontations between police and pockets of hardcore protesters. The rallies were sparked by a draft law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. But they have morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory. In a city unaccustomed to such upheaval, police have fired tear gas and rubber bullets while the parliament has been trashed by protesters -- as Beijing's authority faces its most serious challenge since Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997. On Tuesday the city's chief executive Carrie Lam admitted her administration's attempt to introduce the bill was a "complete failure", saying that her government would not seek to reactivate it in parliament. "There is no such plan. The bill is dead," Lam said. But she once against refused to buckle to demands to completely withdraw the bill from the legislative agenda, provoking outcry from the anti-government camp. Lam's words about the bill are "another ridiculous lie" tweeted leading democracy activist Joshua Wong, who was recently released from jail for his role in protests in 2014. "The bill still exists in the 'legislative programme' until July next year." The Civil Human Rights Front -- which has organised some of the mass rallies -- said it would announce fresh protests over the coming days. With calls mounting for her resignation, Lam has made few public appearances in recent weeks. But on Tuesday she resurfaced, agreeing to meet student protesters and adding that she recognised the swirling economic, political and social challenges facing the city. "I come to the conclusion that there are some fundamental and deep-seated problems in Hong Kong society," she said. Lam has been under pressure to appoint an independent judge as head of a public commission of inquiry into the police response to the protests. But she rejected those calls again on Tuesday, backing an existing police complaints body to investigate claims of excessive force. The anti-extradition movement has united an unlikely cross-section of Hong Kong society, including major business, legal bodies as well as religious leaders, activists and journalists. Protesters are becoming increasingly creative -- chat forums and encrypted messenger apps are buzzing with calls for the mass withdrawal of funds from the Bank of China this Saturday to "stress test" the organisation's liquidity. Beijing has thrown its full support behind Lam, calling on police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes. Over the weekend its ambassador to London said the extradition bill was needed to "plug loopholes", fuelling fears Beijing still wants the legislation to pass. The protests are also part of a longer battle for the soul of Hong Kong between those who see full integration with the autocratic mainland as an inevitability and others wishing to preserve the city's unique freedoms and culture. Under the 1997 handover deal with the British, China promised to allow Hong Kong to keep key liberties such as its independent judiciary and rights like freedom of speech. But many say that 50-year deal is already being reneged on, citing the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians and the jailing of democracy protest leaders.

Protesters in Hong Kong reject Carrie Lam's assertion 'extradition bill dead', threaten mass rallies

Five people were arrested during overnight <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violent-clashes-as-hong-kong-marks-china-handover-anniversary-232056">clashes in Hong Kong </a>between riot officers and anti-government protesters, police said Monday, as the political violence rocking the international hub shows no sign of abating.

The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history following a month of huge marches as well as separate violent confrontations with police involving a minority of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

The rallies were sparked by a now-suspended law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riot-police-baton-charge-protesters-in-hong-kong-233863">China</a>, but have since morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory.

Sunday night saw fresh political violence break out in the district of Mongkok as police baton-charged small groups of masked, largely young protesters who were walking along roads and refused to disperse following another massive, peaceful rally earlier in the day.

In a statement issued early Monday morning, police said the group was taking part in an "unlawful assembly" and had been warned that officers would take action.&nbsp;

"Some protesters resisted and police arrested five persons for assaulting a police officer and obstructing a police officer in the execution of duties," the statement said.

Activists hit out at the police tactics, saying the protesters in Mongkok had remained peaceful as they made their way home and that violence was started by a shield wall of riot officers that had blocked the crowd's path.&nbsp;

"HKers joined rally peacefully... against extradition, bill results in being beaten and assaulted by HK Police," democracy activist Joshua Wong wrote in a tweet accompanying pictures of at least two protesters with bleeding head wounds.&nbsp;

"Just another example of excessive force used by the police," he added in another tweet.

Public anger has soared against the city's pro-Beijing leaders and its police force after officers used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters outside parliament last month.

Since then the chaos has only escalated. Last Monday, anger peaked as hundreds of youth-led demonstrators successfully stormed and trashed the city's parliament.

Those unprecedented scenes -- and renewed huge marches -- have failed to persuade the government, whose sole concession so far has been to suspend the loathed extradition bill.&nbsp;

Protesters are demanding the bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police use of tear gas and rubber bullets, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down.

They have also demanded authorities stop characterizing protesters as "rioters", a definition that carries much steeper jail terms.

Beijing has thrown its full support behind the embattled Lam, calling on Hong Kong police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes.

Despite repeated requests, police have not released a breakdown of how many people have been detained in the last month of protests.

Five people were arrested during overnight clashes in Hong Kong between riot officers and anti-government protesters, police said Monday, as the political violence rocking the international hub shows no sign of abating.

Five people were arrested during overnight clashes in Hong Kong between riot officers and anti-government protesters, police said Monday, as the political violence rocking the international hub shows no sign of abating. The city has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history following a month of huge marches as well as separate violent confrontations with police involving a minority of hardcore protesters. The rallies were sparked by a now-suspended law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory. Sunday night saw fresh political violence break out in the district of Mongkok as police baton-charged small groups of masked, largely young protesters who were walking along roads and refused to disperse following another massive, peaceful rally earlier in the day. In a statement issued early Monday morning, police said the group was taking part in an "unlawful assembly" and had been warned that officers would take action. "Some protesters resisted and police arrested five persons for assaulting a police officer and obstructing a police officer in the execution of duties," the statement said. Activists hit out at the police tactics, saying the protesters in Mongkok had remained peaceful as they made their way home and that violence was started by a shield wall of riot officers that had blocked the crowd's path. "HKers joined rally peacefully... against extradition, bill results in being beaten and assaulted by HK Police," democracy activist Joshua Wong wrote in a tweet accompanying pictures of at least two protesters with bleeding head wounds. "Just another example of excessive force used by the police," he added in another tweet. Public anger has soared against the city's pro-Beijing leaders and its police force after officers used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters outside parliament last month. Since then the chaos has only escalated. Last Monday, anger peaked as hundreds of youth-led demonstrators successfully stormed and trashed the city's parliament. Those unprecedented scenes -- and renewed huge marches -- have failed to persuade the government, whose sole concession so far has been to suspend the loathed extradition bill. Protesters are demanding the bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police use of tear gas and rubber bullets, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down. They have also demanded authorities stop characterizing protesters as "rioters", a definition that carries much steeper jail terms. Beijing has thrown its full support behind the embattled Lam, calling on Hong Kong police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes. Despite repeated requests, police have not released a breakdown of how many people have been detained in the last month of protests.

Hong Kong police arrest five after night of clashes

Anti-government <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dancing-aunties-spark-new-hong-kong-protest-233608">protesters in Hong Kong</a> began circulating plans on Monday to "stress test" the Bank of China in their bid to keep the pressure on the city's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-bid-to-keep-up-pressure-on-citys-pro-beijing-leaders-hong-kong-protesters-take-aim-at-china-station-233724">pro-Beijing leaders</a> after five people were arrested in the latest clashes with police.

The finance hub has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history following a month of huge marches as well as separate violent confrontations with police involving a minority of hardcore protesters.&nbsp;

The rallies were sparked by a now-suspended law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory.

Sunday night saw fresh political violence break out in the <a href="district of Mongkok">district of Mongkok</a> as police baton-charged small groups of masked, largely young protesters who were walking along roads and refused to disperse following another massive, peaceful rally earlier in the day.

Police said the group was taking part in an "unlawful assembly" and had been warned that officers would take action.&nbsp;

"Some protesters resisted and police arrested five persons for assaulting a police officer and obstructing a police officer in the execution of duties," a statement said.

Another protester was arrested earlier in the day for failing to provide identification during a stop and search.

'Excessive force'&nbsp;

Activists hit out at the police tactics, saying the protesters had remained peaceful as they made their way home, and that violence was started by a shield wall of riot officers that had blocked the crowd's path.&nbsp;

"HKers joined rally peacefully... against extradition, bill results in being beaten and assaulted by HK Police," democracy activist Joshua Wong wrote in a tweet accompanying pictures of at least two protesters with bleeding head wounds.&nbsp;

"Just another example of excessive force used by the police," he added in another tweet.

By Monday morning, online groups were already planning more protests on encrypted messenger apps and chat forums that have been successfully used by demonstrators to bring out huge crowds.&nbsp;

One proposal going viral was a call to collectively withdraw funds from the Bank of China this Saturday to "stress test" the organisation's liquidity.

Shares in the bank were down about one per cent Monday in line with the broader market.

The state-owned Bank of China's towering Hong Kong headquarters is one of the most recognisable buildings in the territory's famous skyline and the organisation is one of three banks licensed to issue its notes.&nbsp;

Public anger has soared against the city's pro-Beijing leaders and its police force after officers used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters outside parliament last month.&nbsp;

Last Monday, anger peaked as hundreds of demonstrators stormed and trashed the city's parliament.

Those unprecedented scenes and renewed huge marches have failed to persuade the government, whose sole concession so far has been to suspend the loathed extradition bill.

Protester demands&nbsp;

Protesters are demanding the bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down.

They have also demanded authorities stop characterising protesters as "rioters", a definition that carries much steeper jail terms.

Beijing has thrown its full support behind the embattled Lam, calling on police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes.

Except for a pre-dawn press conference after parliament was stormed, Lam has virtually disappeared from public view in recent weeks with little clue as to what direction her administration intends to take.

Her office announced she planned to speak to the media on Tuesday morning, the first appearance in over a week.&nbsp;

Despite repeated requests, police have not released a breakdown of how many people have been detained in the last month of protests.

A tally kept by AFP shows at least 72 people have been arrested, though it is not clear how many have been charged.

Sunday's rally outside a controversial train station that runs to the mainland drew 230,000 people, organisers said, after calls for the gathering started on online forums and snowballed.

Police estimated 56,000 people attended the protest at its peak. 
&nbsp;

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong began circulating plans on Monday to "stress test" the Bank of China in their bid to keep the pressure on the city's pro-Beijing leaders after five people were arrested in the latest clashes with police.

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong began circulating plans on Monday to "stress test" the Bank of China in their bid to keep the pressure on the city's pro-Beijing leaders after five people were arrested in the latest clashes with police. The finance hub has been plunged into its worst crisis in recent history following a month of huge marches as well as separate violent confrontations with police involving a minority of hardcore protesters. The rallies were sparked by a now-suspended law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, but have since morphed into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous territory. Sunday night saw fresh political violence break out in the district of Mongkok as police baton-charged small groups of masked, largely young protesters who were walking along roads and refused to disperse following another massive, peaceful rally earlier in the day. Police said the group was taking part in an "unlawful assembly" and had been warned that officers would take action. "Some protesters resisted and police arrested five persons for assaulting a police officer and obstructing a police officer in the execution of duties," a statement said. Another protester was arrested earlier in the day for failing to provide identification during a stop and search. 'Excessive force' Activists hit out at the police tactics, saying the protesters had remained peaceful as they made their way home, and that violence was started by a shield wall of riot officers that had blocked the crowd's path. "HKers joined rally peacefully... against extradition, bill results in being beaten and assaulted by HK Police," democracy activist Joshua Wong wrote in a tweet accompanying pictures of at least two protesters with bleeding head wounds. "Just another example of excessive force used by the police," he added in another tweet. By Monday morning, online groups were already planning more protests on encrypted messenger apps and chat forums that have been successfully used by demonstrators to bring out huge crowds. One proposal going viral was a call to collectively withdraw funds from the Bank of China this Saturday to "stress test" the organisation's liquidity. Shares in the bank were down about one per cent Monday in line with the broader market. The state-owned Bank of China's towering Hong Kong headquarters is one of the most recognisable buildings in the territory's famous skyline and the organisation is one of three banks licensed to issue its notes. Public anger has soared against the city's pro-Beijing leaders and its police force after officers used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters outside parliament last month. Last Monday, anger peaked as hundreds of demonstrators stormed and trashed the city's parliament. Those unprecedented scenes and renewed huge marches have failed to persuade the government, whose sole concession so far has been to suspend the loathed extradition bill. Protester demands Protesters are demanding the bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police tactics, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down. They have also demanded authorities stop characterising protesters as "rioters", a definition that carries much steeper jail terms. Beijing has thrown its full support behind the embattled Lam, calling on police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes. Except for a pre-dawn press conference after parliament was stormed, Lam has virtually disappeared from public view in recent weeks with little clue as to what direction her administration intends to take. Her office announced she planned to speak to the media on Tuesday morning, the first appearance in over a week. Despite repeated requests, police have not released a breakdown of how many people have been detained in the last month of protests. A tally kept by AFP shows at least 72 people have been arrested, though it is not clear how many have been charged. Sunday's rally outside a controversial train station that runs to the mainland drew 230,000 people, organisers said, after calls for the gathering started on online forums and snowballed. Police estimated 56,000 people attended the protest at its peak.

Hong Kong protesters moot Bank of China 'stress test' after latest clashes

Hong Kong authorities vowed Wednesday to hunt down the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-criticises-britain-for-shameless-comments-on-hong-kong-232721">protesters who stormed parliament </a>in an unprecedented challenge to the Beijing-backed government.

The semi-autonomous city has been shaken by massive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-donald-trumps-gross-interference-in-hong-kong-232352">anti-government demonstrations </a>since last month, sparked by a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

China has appeared irked by former colonial power Britain's public rebukes over the protests, and on Wednesday London summoned the Chinese ambassador.

Protesters' anger spilled over on Monday when groups of mostly young hardliners vandalised Hong Kong's Legislative Council. They have demanded the resignation of the city's leader Carrie Lam and cancellation of the extradition bill.

After using a makeshift battering ram to smash their way in, they sprayed graffiti on the walls of the Council's main chamber and defaced the city's seal.

Investigators continued to gather evidence from the damaged building on Wednesday.

Watch Video:

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"Police will resolutely pursue the protesters for their illegal and violent acts at the complex on July 1," the police said in a statement.

Authorities are analysing DNA samples and fingerprints to identify suspects and are planning raids to arrest them "in the near future", the South China Morning Post reported, citing an unnamed Hong Kong law enforcement source.

Police announced later Wednesday that they had made a dozen arrests linked with a "violent incident" that occurred Monday morning in the Legislative Council vicinity, but did not connect them to the storming of the building.

The escalation on Monday was the most serious in a number of tense face-offs -- some violent -- between protesters and authorities since the pro-democracy campaign began.

Two days later, the damage was still visible.

Most of the graffiti remained on the walls, including slogans such as "HK is not China".&nbsp;

Some placards placed by protesters in the legislature's main chamber had been removed.

Shattered glass was strewn across the floor near panels that the protesters smashed to make their way inside, and some security cameras dangled from the ceilings and walls on wires -&nbsp;apparently pulled out by protesters.

In one of the main security offices, desks were tipped over and computer screens were thrown on the floor, which was littered with documents and paper.

Makeshift barricades made from metal railings -&nbsp;which protesters have used to protect themselves from police charges -- were still in some corridors.

Lam, the Hong Kong chief executive, has vowed to carry on, and her declaration that the extradition legislation is suspended has failed to quell anger.

Beijing's irritation with Britain intensified on Wednesday, as China's UK ambassador Liu Xiaoming told a news conference that London must "refrain from further interference" in Hong Kong's protests or risk "further damaging" its relationship with China.

Prime Minister Theresa May earlier said she had raised "concerns" over the protests, after Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned of "serious consequences" if China breaches a bilateral deal to preserve Hong Kong's freedoms after the city returned to China in 1997.

A Foreign Office source said the Chinese ambassador had been called to discuss the protests on Wednesday.

Earlier on Wednesday, police announced that eight people -- six men and two women, aged 16-40 -- had been arrested for allegedly "doxxing" officers, launching cyberattacks on police websites and inciting others to "commit damage".

Doxxing is the online release of a target's personal data, often to shame or incite harassment against them.

The alleged crimes "affected a large number of officers, resulting not only in nuisance but threats", Hong Kong police official Swalikh Mohammed told a news conference, adding that some officers and their family members received death threats.

Mohammed said that there were also failed attempts to take down police websites with Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, which involve overwhelming servers with a massive amount of junk requests.

Allegations against the police use of excessive force and unlawful tactics against protesters have fuelled public anger, and protest groups have demanded an investigation.

Hong Kong authorities vowed Wednesday to hunt down the protesters who stormed parliament in an unprecedented challenge to the Beijing-backed government. The semi-autonomous city has been shaken by massive anti-government demonstrations since last month, sparked by a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

Hong Kong authorities vowed Wednesday to hunt down the protesters who stormed parliament in an unprecedented challenge to the Beijing-backed government. The semi-autonomous city has been shaken by massive anti-government demonstrations since last month, sparked by a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. China has appeared irked by former colonial power Britain's public rebukes over the protests, and on Wednesday London summoned the Chinese ambassador. Protesters' anger spilled over on Monday when groups of mostly young hardliners vandalised Hong Kong's Legislative Council. They have demanded the resignation of the city's leader Carrie Lam and cancellation of the extradition bill. After using a makeshift battering ram to smash their way in, they sprayed graffiti on the walls of the Council's main chamber and defaced the city's seal. Investigators continued to gather evidence from the damaged building on Wednesday. Watch Video: "Police will resolutely pursue the protesters for their illegal and violent acts at the complex on July 1," the police said in a statement. Authorities are analysing DNA samples and fingerprints to identify suspects and are planning raids to arrest them "in the near future", the South China Morning Post reported, citing an unnamed Hong Kong law enforcement source. Police announced later Wednesday that they had made a dozen arrests linked with a "violent incident" that occurred Monday morning in the Legislative Council vicinity, but did not connect them to the storming of the building. The escalation on Monday was the most serious in a number of tense face-offs -- some violent -- between protesters and authorities since the pro-democracy campaign began. Two days later, the damage was still visible. Most of the graffiti remained on the walls, including slogans such as "HK is not China". Some placards placed by protesters in the legislature's main chamber had been removed. Shattered glass was strewn across the floor near panels that the protesters smashed to make their way inside, and some security cameras dangled from the ceilings and walls on wires - apparently pulled out by protesters. In one of the main security offices, desks were tipped over and computer screens were thrown on the floor, which was littered with documents and paper. Makeshift barricades made from metal railings - which protesters have used to protect themselves from police charges -- were still in some corridors. Lam, the Hong Kong chief executive, has vowed to carry on, and her declaration that the extradition legislation is suspended has failed to quell anger. Beijing's irritation with Britain intensified on Wednesday, as China's UK ambassador Liu Xiaoming told a news conference that London must "refrain from further interference" in Hong Kong's protests or risk "further damaging" its relationship with China. Prime Minister Theresa May earlier said she had raised "concerns" over the protests, after Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned of "serious consequences" if China breaches a bilateral deal to preserve Hong Kong's freedoms after the city returned to China in 1997. A Foreign Office source said the Chinese ambassador had been called to discuss the protests on Wednesday. Earlier on Wednesday, police announced that eight people -- six men and two women, aged 16-40 -- had been arrested for allegedly "doxxing" officers, launching cyberattacks on police websites and inciting others to "commit damage". Doxxing is the online release of a target's personal data, often to shame or incite harassment against them. The alleged crimes "affected a large number of officers, resulting not only in nuisance but threats", Hong Kong police official Swalikh Mohammed told a news conference, adding that some officers and their family members received death threats. Mohammed said that there were also failed attempts to take down police websites with Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, which involve overwhelming servers with a massive amount of junk requests. Allegations against the police use of excessive force and unlawful tactics against protesters have fuelled public anger, and protest groups have demanded an investigation.

Will resolutely pursue protesters for violent acts at Parliament: Hong Kong police

China's central government condemned on Tuesday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-condemns-extremely-violent-protests-232173">ransacking of Hong Kong's legislature </a>and said it backed the city authorities to investigate the "criminal responsibility of violent offenders".

The semi-autonomous financial hub has been thrown into crisis by weeks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-retake-parliament-from-anti-government-protesters-232153">massive demonstrations over a bill </a>that would allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland.

But on Monday -- the 22nd anniversary of the city's handover to China -- anger spilled over as groups of mostly young, hardline protesters, broke into the legislative council where they hung Hong Kong's colonial-era flag and left anti-Beijing graffiti.

"These serious illegal actions trample on the rule of law in Hong Kong, undermine Hong Kong's social order and harm the fundamental interests of Hong Kong," the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, China's cabinet, said in a statement by an unnamed spokesperson.

"It is a blatant challenge to the 'one country, two systems' bottom line. We express our vehement condemnation against this," the spokesperson said.

Under the terms of the 1997 handover between colonial power Britain to China, Hong Kong is to be governed under its own laws with special rights including freedom of speech and an independent judiciary until 2047.

The statement said Beijing strongly supports Hong Kong's government and the police.

The central government "also supports the relevant agencies of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to investigate the criminal responsibility of violent offenders in accordance with the law, to restore normal social order as soon as possible, to protect the personal and property safety of the citizens, and to safeguard Hong Kong's prosperity and stability," it said.

China's central government condemned on Tuesday the ransacking of Hong Kong's legislature and said it backed the city authorities to investigate the "criminal responsibility of violent offenders".

China's central government condemned on Tuesday the ransacking of Hong Kong's legislature and said it backed the city authorities to investigate the "criminal responsibility of violent offenders". The semi-autonomous financial hub has been thrown into crisis by weeks of massive demonstrations over a bill that would allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland. But on Monday -- the 22nd anniversary of the city's handover to China -- anger spilled over as groups of mostly young, hardline protesters, broke into the legislative council where they hung Hong Kong's colonial-era flag and left anti-Beijing graffiti. "These serious illegal actions trample on the rule of law in Hong Kong, undermine Hong Kong's social order and harm the fundamental interests of Hong Kong," the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, China's cabinet, said in a statement by an unnamed spokesperson. "It is a blatant challenge to the 'one country, two systems' bottom line. We express our vehement condemnation against this," the spokesperson said. Under the terms of the 1997 handover between colonial power Britain to China, Hong Kong is to be governed under its own laws with special rights including freedom of speech and an independent judiciary until 2047. The statement said Beijing strongly supports Hong Kong's government and the police. The central government "also supports the relevant agencies of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to investigate the criminal responsibility of violent offenders in accordance with the law, to restore normal social order as soon as possible, to protect the personal and property safety of the citizens, and to safeguard Hong Kong's prosperity and stability," it said.

Investigate criminal responsibility of violent offenders: China to Hong Kong authorities

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigate-criminal-responsibility-of-violent-offenders-china-to-hong-kong-authorities-232227">Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong </a>was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-condemns-extremely-violent-protests-232173">British colony</a>.

China has condemned violent demonstrations in Hong Kong as an "undisguised challenge" to the 'one country, two systems' formula under which the city is ruled which allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including the freedom to protest.

"The UK signed an internationally binding legal agreement in 1984 that enshrines the 'one country, two systems rule', enshrines the basic freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and we stand four square behind that agreement, four square behind the people of Hong Kong," British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said.

"There will be serious consequences if that internationally binding legal agreement were not to be honoured," he told BBC TV. 
 
Watch: Hong Kong police evacuate protesters from the legislative chamber

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Protesters, angry about proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China, smashed their way into Hong Kong's legislature on Monday, with police using tear gas to disperse them.

Hunt urged the Hong Kong authorities that any repression would exacerbate people's concerns.

"We in the UK condemn violence on all sides, and many people who strongly support the pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong will have been deeply dismayed by the scenes they saw on TV last night," Hunt said.

"But, we urge the authorities not to use what happened as a pretext for repression, but rather to understand the root causes of what happened which is a deep-seated concern by people in Hong Kong that their basic freedoms are under attack."

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former British colony.

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former British colony. China has condemned violent demonstrations in Hong Kong as an "undisguised challenge" to the 'one country, two systems' formula under which the city is ruled which allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including the freedom to protest. "The UK signed an internationally binding legal agreement in 1984 that enshrines the 'one country, two systems rule', enshrines the basic freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and we stand four square behind that agreement, four square behind the people of Hong Kong," British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said. "There will be serious consequences if that internationally binding legal agreement were not to be honoured," he told BBC TV. Watch: Hong Kong police evacuate protesters from the legislative chamber Protesters, angry about proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China, smashed their way into Hong Kong's legislature on Monday, with police using tear gas to disperse them. Hunt urged the Hong Kong authorities that any repression would exacerbate people's concerns. "We in the UK condemn violence on all sides, and many people who strongly support the pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong will have been deeply dismayed by the scenes they saw on TV last night," Hunt said. "But, we urge the authorities not to use what happened as a pretext for repression, but rather to understand the root causes of what happened which is a deep-seated concern by people in Hong Kong that their basic freedoms are under attack."

UK warns China of serious consequences if Hong Kong rights not honoured

More than a thousand protesters marched to major foreign consulates on Wednesday calling on leaders at the upcoming G20 summit to raise the plight of Hong Kong with China and to support the full scrapping of a controversial extradition bill.

Holding placards including "Please Liberate Hong Kong" and chanting "Help Hong Kong", the demonstrators, some wearing masks, marched to a succession of consulates represented at the Group of 20 major economies summit in Japan's Osaka this weekend.

Over the past three weeks, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-will-not-allow-hong-kong-issue-to-be-discussed-at-g20-summit-229878">millions of Hong Kong people have protested against an extradition bill </a>that would have allowed individuals, including foreigners, to be extradited to mainland China to face trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party.

Hong Kong's Beijing-appointed leader Carrie Lam, eventually caved in after some of the worst violence seen in decades on the city's streets, with police firing tear gas and rubber bullets.

But Lam stopped short of protester demands to scrap the bill altogether, saying it would be suspended indefinitely.

"As long as the government doesn't withdraw the bill, and they refuse to respond, then we will keep on fighting," said Aslee Tam, a 19-year-old university student in the march.

"We want to make some noise during the G20 meeting, to let other countries discuss the issues in Hong Kong."

At the US consulate, protesters handed over a petition asking president Donald Trump to "Back Hong Kong at the G20 Summit". They urged Trump to raise Hong Kong with China's leader Xi Jinping, and to support a full withdrawal of the extradition bill and to set up an independent investigation into Hong Kong police brutality against protesters.

The protesters, some wearing "Liberate Hong Kong" T-shirts, also marched to the British consulate where their petition was received by a senior diplomat. Britain's Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt told parliament on Tuesday that London would ban sales of tear gas to Hong Kong and called for an independent probe into the recent violence.

The raising of Hong Kong's extradition saga could prove to be an embarrassment for China's leader Xi, at a delicate time of rising trade tensions with the United States, and pile further pressure on Hong Kong's leader amid reports Beijing now harbours serious doubts about her capabilities.

An assistant Chinese Foreign Minister Zhang Jun said earlier this week that China won't allow Hong Kong to be discussed at the G20.

But Hong Kong activists have raised more than HK$5 million ($640,606) in a crowdfunding campaign to take out newspaper ads in major foreign media like the New York Times in a bid to raise awareness of Hong Kong's plight at the G20. Some Hong Kong activists have also travelled to Osaka.

More than a thousand protesters marched to major foreign consulates on Wednesday calling on leaders at the upcoming G20 summit to raise the plight of Hong Kong with China and to support the full scrapping of a controversial extradition bill.

More than a thousand protesters marched to major foreign consulates on Wednesday calling on leaders at the upcoming G20 summit to raise the plight of Hong Kong with China and to support the full scrapping of a controversial extradition bill. Holding placards including "Please Liberate Hong Kong" and chanting "Help Hong Kong", the demonstrators, some wearing masks, marched to a succession of consulates represented at the Group of 20 major economies summit in Japan's Osaka this weekend. Over the past three weeks, millions of Hong Kong people have protested against an extradition bill that would have allowed individuals, including foreigners, to be extradited to mainland China to face trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party. Hong Kong's Beijing-appointed leader Carrie Lam, eventually caved in after some of the worst violence seen in decades on the city's streets, with police firing tear gas and rubber bullets. But Lam stopped short of protester demands to scrap the bill altogether, saying it would be suspended indefinitely. "As long as the government doesn't withdraw the bill, and they refuse to respond, then we will keep on fighting," said Aslee Tam, a 19-year-old university student in the march. "We want to make some noise during the G20 meeting, to let other countries discuss the issues in Hong Kong." At the US consulate, protesters handed over a petition asking president Donald Trump to "Back Hong Kong at the G20 Summit". They urged Trump to raise Hong Kong with China's leader Xi Jinping, and to support a full withdrawal of the extradition bill and to set up an independent investigation into Hong Kong police brutality against protesters. The protesters, some wearing "Liberate Hong Kong" T-shirts, also marched to the British consulate where their petition was received by a senior diplomat. Britain's Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt told parliament on Tuesday that London would ban sales of tear gas to Hong Kong and called for an independent probe into the recent violence. The raising of Hong Kong's extradition saga could prove to be an embarrassment for China's leader Xi, at a delicate time of rising trade tensions with the United States, and pile further pressure on Hong Kong's leader amid reports Beijing now harbours serious doubts about her capabilities. An assistant Chinese Foreign Minister Zhang Jun said earlier this week that China won't allow Hong Kong to be discussed at the G20. But Hong Kong activists have raised more than HK$5 million ($640,606) in a crowdfunding campaign to take out newspaper ads in major foreign media like the New York Times in a bid to raise awareness of Hong Kong's plight at the G20. Some Hong Kong activists have also travelled to Osaka.

Hong Kong activists call on G20 leaders to help 'liberate' city

Hong Kong police on Saturday slammed an "illegal" blockade of its headquarters after a 15-hour siege by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-block-roads-surround-police-headquarters-in-hong-kong-229303">anti-government demonstrators</a> calling for the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing leader.

Thousands of largely young protesters surrounded the building throughout Friday and into the small hours of Saturday morning, the latest manifestation of angry demonstrations sweeping Hong Kong.

The international finance hub has been rocked by the worst political unrest since its 1997 handover to China.&nbsp;

Millions have marched this month to oppose a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to the Chinese mainland.

Officers also used tear gas and rubber bullets last week to clear protesters during another massive demonstration outside the city's parliament, fanning widespread anger at the police.

The spark for the current wave of protests was an attempt by chief executive Carrie Lam to pass the Beijing-backed extradition law, which she has now postponed following the huge public backlash.

But the demonstrations have since morphed into a wider movement against Lam's administration and Beijing after years of sliding political freedoms.

Guerrilla protests

Protest leaders plan to hold another huge rally on July 1 but student-led groups -- communicating through encrypted messaging apps -- have begun embracing spontaneous, fast-moving acts of civil disobedience.

"We need to flow like water", one protester called Chris told AFP, espousing a famous philosophy from martial arts superstar and Hong Kong legend Bruce Lee.

During Friday's demonstrations outside police headquarters, large crowds of protesters blockaded entrances, taped over CCTV cameras and shouted at police.

Many chanted "release the righteous" and "shame on police thugs" -- references to those detained during violence last week between demonstrators and the police.

Opposition groups have demanded an investigation into allegations of police brutality and the release of those detained during the clashes, in addition to Lam's ouster and the permanent cancellation of the extradition bill.

Officers remained inside their fortified building throughout Friday.

The protest was noisy but peaceful -- with the exception of some thrown eggs and demonstrators shining laser pens at the windows.&nbsp;

The crowds eventually dispersed in the early hours of Saturday some 15 hours after their demonstration began.

In a statement Saturday morning, police called the protest "illegal, irrational and unreasonable", saying emergency calls were interrupted and that 13 members of staff were "sent to hospital for treatment".

It did not say how the staff were injured.

Police have defended using tear gas and rubber bullets on June 12 as a necessary and proportionate response to meet violent protesters who were trying to break into the city's parliament.

But rights group Amnesty International said Friday it had verified multiple instances of police violence that breached international laws.

Sliding freedoms

Although Hong Kong was returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, it is still administered separately under an arrangement known as "one country, two systems".

The city enjoys freedoms unseen on the mainland but many residents have been alarmed in recent years by what they feel is a tighter grip by Beijing.

Hong Kong's leaders are not elected and calls for universal suffrage have fallen on deaf ears.

In 2014, pro-democracy protesters seized key intersections of the city for two months but failed to win any concessions from Beijing.

Since then, many of that movement's leaders have been jailed while some Beijing critics have found themselves banned from politics or even disappearing into Chinese custody.

Opposition to the extradition bill managed to unite a wide cross-section of Hong Kong with prominent legal and business bodies, religious figures and activists speaking out against it.

Critics feared the law would ensnare both Hong Kongers and foreigners in mainland China's opaque and politicised justice system, and also give Beijing a tool to target critics based in the semi-autonomous territory.

The Chinese government had supported the extradition proposal and accused protest organisers of colluding with Western governments.

But Beijing said after the bill's suspension that it respected and understood the decision. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong police on Saturday slammed an "illegal" blockade of its headquarters after a 15-hour siege by anti-government demonstrators calling for the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing leader.

Hong Kong police on Saturday slammed an "illegal" blockade of its headquarters after a 15-hour siege by anti-government demonstrators calling for the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing leader. Thousands of largely young protesters surrounded the building throughout Friday and into the small hours of Saturday morning, the latest manifestation of angry demonstrations sweeping Hong Kong. The international finance hub has been rocked by the worst political unrest since its 1997 handover to China. Millions have marched this month to oppose a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to the Chinese mainland. Officers also used tear gas and rubber bullets last week to clear protesters during another massive demonstration outside the city's parliament, fanning widespread anger at the police. The spark for the current wave of protests was an attempt by chief executive Carrie Lam to pass the Beijing-backed extradition law, which she has now postponed following the huge public backlash. But the demonstrations have since morphed into a wider movement against Lam's administration and Beijing after years of sliding political freedoms. Guerrilla protests Protest leaders plan to hold another huge rally on July 1 but student-led groups -- communicating through encrypted messaging apps -- have begun embracing spontaneous, fast-moving acts of civil disobedience. "We need to flow like water", one protester called Chris told AFP, espousing a famous philosophy from martial arts superstar and Hong Kong legend Bruce Lee. During Friday's demonstrations outside police headquarters, large crowds of protesters blockaded entrances, taped over CCTV cameras and shouted at police. Many chanted "release the righteous" and "shame on police thugs" -- references to those detained during violence last week between demonstrators and the police. Opposition groups have demanded an investigation into allegations of police brutality and the release of those detained during the clashes, in addition to Lam's ouster and the permanent cancellation of the extradition bill. Officers remained inside their fortified building throughout Friday. The protest was noisy but peaceful -- with the exception of some thrown eggs and demonstrators shining laser pens at the windows. The crowds eventually dispersed in the early hours of Saturday some 15 hours after their demonstration began. In a statement Saturday morning, police called the protest "illegal, irrational and unreasonable", saying emergency calls were interrupted and that 13 members of staff were "sent to hospital for treatment". It did not say how the staff were injured. Police have defended using tear gas and rubber bullets on June 12 as a necessary and proportionate response to meet violent protesters who were trying to break into the city's parliament. But rights group Amnesty International said Friday it had verified multiple instances of police violence that breached international laws. Sliding freedoms Although Hong Kong was returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, it is still administered separately under an arrangement known as "one country, two systems". The city enjoys freedoms unseen on the mainland but many residents have been alarmed in recent years by what they feel is a tighter grip by Beijing. Hong Kong's leaders are not elected and calls for universal suffrage have fallen on deaf ears. In 2014, pro-democracy protesters seized key intersections of the city for two months but failed to win any concessions from Beijing. Since then, many of that movement's leaders have been jailed while some Beijing critics have found themselves banned from politics or even disappearing into Chinese custody. Opposition to the extradition bill managed to unite a wide cross-section of Hong Kong with prominent legal and business bodies, religious figures and activists speaking out against it. Critics feared the law would ensnare both Hong Kongers and foreigners in mainland China's opaque and politicised justice system, and also give Beijing a tool to target critics based in the semi-autonomous territory. The Chinese government had supported the extradition proposal and accused protest organisers of colluding with Western governments. But Beijing said after the bill's suspension that it respected and understood the decision.

Hong Kong police slam 'illegal' protest as Headquarter siege ends

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-businesses-pledge-closures-as-extradition-anger-builds-226173">Hong Kong</a> student groups were preparing to mobilise support for another major demonstration, a union leader said, as a Thursday deadline approached for the pro-Beijing government to respond to demands of protesters who have shaken the city with massive rallies.

Millions have marched this month to oppose a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to the Chinese mainland, but the huge protest movement has morphed into a larger rebuke of Hong Kong's administration.

Under-fire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-firmly-support-hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-china-227947">chief executive Carrie Lam</a> has apologised and suspended the controversial bill, but that has failed to quell the opposition, with protesters demanding she step down and completely withdraw the legislation.

A network of students at universities and higher education institutions is preparing to mobilise based on a 5:00 pm (0900 GMT) Thursday deadline circulating online for several demands to be met, said So Tsun Fung, president of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Students Union.

In addition to Lam's ouster and the extradition law's withdrawal, protesters have also demanded the release of those detained during sporadic clashes with police last week, and an investigation into allegations of police brutality.

So told AFP the student network would call for people to surround Hong Kong's central government offices at 7:00 am Friday (2300 GMT Thursday) if the Lam administration does not respond to demands.

&nbsp;Human chain

"The hope is to apply pressure before civil servants go to work if we have a certain amount of people," he added.

In a chat group seen by AFP on the messaging app Telegram, some users posted anonymous polls asking its more than 34,000 members how they wanted to protest Friday, with options including a peaceful sit-in, forming a human chain, or surrounding Lam's residence.

A Hong Kong government press representative asked AFP to direct queries about the demands to Lam's office, which could not be immediately reached for comment.

The Civil Human Rights Front, a group that helped facilitate the massive June 9 and June 16 rallies, said it would support any lawful and peaceful protest by student groups.

The ongoing protests have been largely "leaderless", with no one group or individual articulating demands or negotiating with authorities on the demonstrators' behalf.

The minority pro-democracy bloc in Hong Kong's legislature would also back the students and urges them to remain peaceful, opposition lawmaker Claudio Mo told AFP.

Opponents of the extradition bill that sparked the crisis have said they fear the proposal will ensnare the people of Hong Kong in mainland China's opaque and politicised justice system and also give Beijing a tool to target its critics based in the semi-autonomous territory.

Hong Kong student groups were preparing to mobilise support for another major demonstration, a union leader said, as a Thursday deadline approached for the pro-Beijing government to respond to demands of protesters who have shaken the city with massive rallies.

Hong Kong student groups were preparing to mobilise support for another major demonstration, a union leader said, as a Thursday deadline approached for the pro-Beijing government to respond to demands of protesters who have shaken the city with massive rallies. Millions have marched this month to oppose a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to the Chinese mainland, but the huge protest movement has morphed into a larger rebuke of Hong Kong's administration. Under-fire chief executive Carrie Lam has apologised and suspended the controversial bill, but that has failed to quell the opposition, with protesters demanding she step down and completely withdraw the legislation. A network of students at universities and higher education institutions is preparing to mobilise based on a 5:00 pm (0900 GMT) Thursday deadline circulating online for several demands to be met, said So Tsun Fung, president of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Students Union. In addition to Lam's ouster and the extradition law's withdrawal, protesters have also demanded the release of those detained during sporadic clashes with police last week, and an investigation into allegations of police brutality. So told AFP the student network would call for people to surround Hong Kong's central government offices at 7:00 am Friday (2300 GMT Thursday) if the Lam administration does not respond to demands. Human chain "The hope is to apply pressure before civil servants go to work if we have a certain amount of people," he added. In a chat group seen by AFP on the messaging app Telegram, some users posted anonymous polls asking its more than 34,000 members how they wanted to protest Friday, with options including a peaceful sit-in, forming a human chain, or surrounding Lam's residence. A Hong Kong government press representative asked AFP to direct queries about the demands to Lam's office, which could not be immediately reached for comment. The Civil Human Rights Front, a group that helped facilitate the massive June 9 and June 16 rallies, said it would support any lawful and peaceful protest by student groups. The ongoing protests have been largely "leaderless", with no one group or individual articulating demands or negotiating with authorities on the demonstrators' behalf. The minority pro-democracy bloc in Hong Kong's legislature would also back the students and urges them to remain peaceful, opposition lawmaker Claudio Mo told AFP. Opponents of the extradition bill that sparked the crisis have said they fear the proposal will ensnare the people of Hong Kong in mainland China's opaque and politicised justice system and also give Beijing a tool to target its critics based in the semi-autonomous territory.

Hong Kong protesters threaten more demonstrations if demands not met

Members of Hong Kong's legislature met on Wednesday for the first time since the largest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-translates-sad-to-happy-angering-hong-kong-protesters-against-china-extradition-law-228536">anti-government protest</a> in the city's history, with many opposition lawmakers slamming the pro-Beijing administration's handling of the crisis.

Hong Kong has been shaken by a series of massive demonstrations against a proposed law that would have allowed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-in-hong-kong-fearful-of-chinas-grasp-flee-to-taiwan-228393">extraditions to mainland China</a>, and the city's police force has been criticised for using excessive force to disperse protesters.

Videos of police beating unarmed protesters went viral and sparked public anger, and the tactics were widely condemned. Police said force was necessary to fend off protesters throwing bricks and metal bars.

In a tense session, opposition lawmakers grilled Hong Kong's head of security, John Lee, over the clashes.

Many pro-democracy members of the Legislative Council wore black and carried white chrysanthemums in tribute to a man who fell to his death while protesting the law.

Some placed placards on their desks reading "No China Extradition" and "Withdraw, Withdraw" -- referring to the controversial bill.

"We are sad that some people were hurt while expressing their views," Lee said, as he repeated the government's apology for the turmoil caused by the bill.

He said police were responding to threats from protesters, but opposition lawmakers ridiculed his comments.

"The police were well-trained, and you have all the gear and you say the police were under threat," pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said.

"This is utterly unconvincing."

An opposition lawmaker was due to introduce a non-binding motion of no-confidence in pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, but it was not tabled before the session was adjourned until Thursday.

The motion was not expected to pass in the body, which is dominated by Lam's camp.

Lam suspended the extradition bill after the first mass rally on June 9, and June 12 clashes between police and protesters.

But that failed to quell public anger and protesters staged an even larger rally on Sunday drew over two million people, according to organisers, who demanded the bill be withdrawn and Lam resign.

Lam apologised Tuesday and indicated the law is unlikely to be revived, but did not announce a formal withdrawal and vowed to continue as the city's leader.

Protesters say they will not relent until their demands are met, but have not yet announced plans for new demonstrations.

"This great chaos is something I don't want to see," Andrew Leung, president of the Legislative Council, said outside the chamber, urging the government not to table any divisive bills.

"Maybe we can put aside the political issues for now." Opponents of the extradition proposal fear it will entangle Hong Kong people in China's notoriously opaque and politicised justice system, and threaten those critical of Beijing's policies.

The city's formidable business community was also spooked by the law, which they feared would damage Hong Kong's reputation as a safe business hub.

Members of Hong Kong's legislature met on Wednesday for the first time since the largest anti-government protest in the city's history, with many opposition lawmakers slamming the pro-Beijing administration's handling of the crisis.

Members of Hong Kong's legislature met on Wednesday for the first time since the largest anti-government protest in the city's history, with many opposition lawmakers slamming the pro-Beijing administration's handling of the crisis. Hong Kong has been shaken by a series of massive demonstrations against a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, and the city's police force has been criticised for using excessive force to disperse protesters. Videos of police beating unarmed protesters went viral and sparked public anger, and the tactics were widely condemned. Police said force was necessary to fend off protesters throwing bricks and metal bars. In a tense session, opposition lawmakers grilled Hong Kong's head of security, John Lee, over the clashes. Many pro-democracy members of the Legislative Council wore black and carried white chrysanthemums in tribute to a man who fell to his death while protesting the law. Some placed placards on their desks reading "No China Extradition" and "Withdraw, Withdraw" -- referring to the controversial bill. "We are sad that some people were hurt while expressing their views," Lee said, as he repeated the government's apology for the turmoil caused by the bill. He said police were responding to threats from protesters, but opposition lawmakers ridiculed his comments. "The police were well-trained, and you have all the gear and you say the police were under threat," pro-democracy lawmaker Claudia Mo said. "This is utterly unconvincing." An opposition lawmaker was due to introduce a non-binding motion of no-confidence in pro-Beijing chief executive Carrie Lam, but it was not tabled before the session was adjourned until Thursday. The motion was not expected to pass in the body, which is dominated by Lam's camp. Lam suspended the extradition bill after the first mass rally on June 9, and June 12 clashes between police and protesters. But that failed to quell public anger and protesters staged an even larger rally on Sunday drew over two million people, according to organisers, who demanded the bill be withdrawn and Lam resign. Lam apologised Tuesday and indicated the law is unlikely to be revived, but did not announce a formal withdrawal and vowed to continue as the city's leader. Protesters say they will not relent until their demands are met, but have not yet announced plans for new demonstrations. "This great chaos is something I don't want to see," Andrew Leung, president of the Legislative Council, said outside the chamber, urging the government not to table any divisive bills. "Maybe we can put aside the political issues for now." Opponents of the extradition proposal fear it will entangle Hong Kong people in China's notoriously opaque and politicised justice system, and threaten those critical of Beijing's policies. The city's formidable business community was also spooked by the law, which they feared would damage Hong Kong's reputation as a safe business hub.

Hong Kong legislature members grill security chief over use of force against protesters

A small number of protesters still lingered outside Hong Kong's Legislative Council (LegCo) complex on Wednesday (June 19) expressing dissatisfaction with leader Carrie Lam's public apology, despite business continuing as usual across the city.

Lingering Hong Kong protesters unsatisfied with leader apology

Protesters End Occupation Of Highway Outside Parliament But Demands For Carrie Lam's Resignation Intensify In Hong Kong Protests intensify in Hong Kong. Protesters display remarkable discipline. They even forced the withdrawal of the controversial extradition bill, but that has not stalled demands for the resignation of Carrie Lam. Here's Palki summing up the remarkable resilience of the protesters in Hong Kong

Gravitas: Hong Kong protests intensify: 2 million people take to the streets

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam apologised Tuesday for the political unrest that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-firmly-support-hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-china-227947">has shaken Hong Kong</a>, but the pro-Beijing chief executive refused to cave in to demands for her resignation.

The semi-autonomous territory has been plunged into its biggest crisis in decades, with millions of people taking to the streets to demand the withdrawal of proposed legislation that would have allowed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/joshua-wong-meet-the-student-who-risked-the-wrath-of-china-and-lived-227996">extraditions to mainland China</a>.

Lam suspended the bill on Saturday after two massive rallies that saw isolated bouts of violence between the police and some protesters.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-protests-why-china-relented-228123/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

But that failed to quell public anger, and an even bigger rally Sunday drew over two million people, organisers said -- more than a quarter of the population.

"I personally have to shoulder much of the responsibility. This has led to controversies, disputes and anxieties in society," Lam told a press conference.

"For this I offer my most sincere apology to all people of Hong Kong."

Protesters have demanded that the bill be fully withdrawn, and for Lam to step down and apologise for police using tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters last week.&nbsp;

They have also asked for all charges to be dropped against anyone detained during the protests.

But Lam gave no indication she was prepared to step down, saying instead she wanted to "continue to work very hard... to meet the aspirations of the Hong Kong people".

Without explicitly stating so, Lam indicated, however, that the extradition bill was unlikely to be revived given the public sentiment.

"I will not proceed again with this legislative exercise if these fears and anxieties could not be adequately addressed," she said.

"If the bill... (does) not make the legislative council by July next year, it will expire... and the government will accept that reality."

- Public rage - 
Critics of the legislation fear it will entangle the people of Hong Kong in China's notoriously opaque and politicised justice system, and threaten Beijing's critics.

The mass protests also drew support from the city's formidable business community, amid fears the law would damage Hong Kong's reputation as a safe business hub.

While the extradition issue had been the spark for the mass rallies, the protest movement has since morphed into the latest expression of public rage in Hong Kong against both the city's leaders and beijing.

Hong Kong enjoys freedoms unseen in mainland China under the terms of its 1997 handover from Britain to China.

But many residents fear that they are being slowly eroded by what they feel is Beijing's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city.

As recent evidence, they offer the failure of the huge pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement" in 2014, the imprisonment of protest leaders and disqualification of popular lawmakers, and the disappearance of booksellers critical of Beijing.

The Chinese government had supported the extradition proposal, and accused protest organisers of colluding with Western governments. It had denounced expressions of support for the Hong Kong protesters as interference in the city -- and China's -- internal affairs.

But Beijing said after the bill's suspension last week that it respected and understood the Hong Kong government's decision. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam apologised Tuesday for the political unrest that has shaken Hong Kong, but the pro-Beijing chief executive refused to cave in to demands for her resignation.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam apologised Tuesday for the political unrest that has shaken Hong Kong, but the pro-Beijing chief executive refused to cave in to demands for her resignation. The semi-autonomous territory has been plunged into its biggest crisis in decades, with millions of people taking to the streets to demand the withdrawal of proposed legislation that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. Lam suspended the bill on Saturday after two massive rallies that saw isolated bouts of violence between the police and some protesters. But that failed to quell public anger, and an even bigger rally Sunday drew over two million people, organisers said -- more than a quarter of the population. "I personally have to shoulder much of the responsibility. This has led to controversies, disputes and anxieties in society," Lam told a press conference. "For this I offer my most sincere apology to all people of Hong Kong." Protesters have demanded that the bill be fully withdrawn, and for Lam to step down and apologise for police using tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters last week. They have also asked for all charges to be dropped against anyone detained during the protests. But Lam gave no indication she was prepared to step down, saying instead she wanted to "continue to work very hard... to meet the aspirations of the Hong Kong people". Without explicitly stating so, Lam indicated, however, that the extradition bill was unlikely to be revived given the public sentiment. "I will not proceed again with this legislative exercise if these fears and anxieties could not be adequately addressed," she said. "If the bill... (does) not make the legislative council by July next year, it will expire... and the government will accept that reality." - Public rage - Critics of the legislation fear it will entangle the people of Hong Kong in China's notoriously opaque and politicised justice system, and threaten Beijing's critics. The mass protests also drew support from the city's formidable business community, amid fears the law would damage Hong Kong's reputation as a safe business hub. While the extradition issue had been the spark for the mass rallies, the protest movement has since morphed into the latest expression of public rage in Hong Kong against both the city's leaders and beijing. Hong Kong enjoys freedoms unseen in mainland China under the terms of its 1997 handover from Britain to China. But many residents fear that they are being slowly eroded by what they feel is Beijing's tightening grip on the semi-autonomous city. As recent evidence, they offer the failure of the huge pro-democracy "Umbrella Movement" in 2014, the imprisonment of protest leaders and disqualification of popular lawmakers, and the disappearance of booksellers critical of Beijing. The Chinese government had supported the extradition proposal, and accused protest organisers of colluding with Western governments. It had denounced expressions of support for the Hong Kong protesters as interference in the city -- and China's -- internal affairs. But Beijing said after the bill's suspension last week that it respected and understood the Hong Kong government's decision.

I offer my most sincere apology to all people of Hong Kong: Carrie Lam on political unrest

By Caitlin Byrne

The latest protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, which organisers said brought some 2 million people to the streets, represented yet another striking show of “people power” in the semi-autonomous Chinese city.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam’s efforts to bring calm to Hong Kong included an uncharacteristic about-face on her position over the weekend, a rare apology and the indefinite suspension of the proposed changes to the city’s extradition laws, which sparked the initial protest against the government last weekend.

But laden with qualifications and a subtle rebuke of the protesters, Lam’s repositioning of the issue has had limited impact, suggesting that she may have seriously underestimated the anger and determination of her constituency. The protesters are now calling for nothing less than her resignation, making her the “lightening rod” for public anger in the face of growing resentment towards Chinese influence in Hong Kong.

As the people of Hong Kong continue to take to the streets, one wonders whether the real struggle has only just begun.

How the fight over the extradition bill mushroomed

For many, Lam’s controversial extradition bill represented the “thin edge of the wedge” of Chinese control. If passed, the proposed law could have seen local and foreign criminal suspects sent to mainland China to stand trial in a judicial system that is opaque and vastly uncompromising.

But there’s much more at stake for the people, identity and prospects of Hong Kong. For those concerned about China’s rising influence in the city, the legislation represented a dangerous break in the firewall that has preserved civil liberties for the people of Hong Kong within the “one country, two systems” framework.

While its proponents claim the bill has a narrow application, many fear it would enable China’s leadership to target political opponents, entrepreneurs and activists as part of its wider strategy for exercising control over the region. The implications for Hong Kong’s reputation as a vibrant global financial, business and transit hub would be significant.

Of course, the latest demonstrations cannot be viewed in isolation – they are the latest chapter in Hong Kong’s longstanding tradition of public dissent. And there have been some notable successes in the past, including the indefinite suspension of plans to implement a national security law in 2003 and the reversal of a proposed comprehensive national curriculum in 2012.

Yet, as the 2014 Umbrella Movement protests revealed, the mood in Hong Kong appears to be taking on a more sombre tone. Much of this reflects the changing mood within China.

Under President Xi Jinping, civil protests — even those organised in the special autonomous region of Hong Kong — are increasingly fraught. Xi himself set the tone with a particularly hard-line speech during his 2017 visit to the city for Lam’s swearing-in.

Flagging new levels of intolerance for activities that might be interpreted as encouraging Hong Kong independence from China, Xi noted:

Any attempt to endanger China’s sovereignty and security, challenge the power of the central government … or use Hong Kong to carry out infiltration and sabotage activities against the mainland is an act that crosses the red line and is absolutely impermissible.

Despite the efforts of China’s state-run Global Times newspaper to lay blame for the “uncontrolled street politics” on “Western forces” and “malice from afar”, however, Chinese political authorities have remained relatively quiet on the Hong Kong protests this week.

This is unsurprising. Coming just a week after the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protests, China was never likely to take an openly provocative stance against the protesters.

But it is clear Beijing is keeping a close eye on the situation, pushing back on criticisms from abroad and now possibly wavering in its support for Lam. Ever sensitive to external critiques that relate to questions of sovereignty, the Chinese government may decide to take a harder line should the protests continue to gather momentum.

Lack of foreign pressure

Thus far, the response to the protests has been relatively muted. The European Union has called for the rights of the Hong Kong people to be respected, noting its concern for the “potentially far-reaching consequences” of the extradition bill. UK Prime Minister Theresa May, meanwhile, has called on authorities to ensure the extradition arrangements “are in line with the rights and freedoms” set forth in the joint declaration when the British handed Hong Kong back to China in 1997.

US President Donald Trump has remained ambivalent so far, saying only last week, “I’m sure they’ll be able to work it all out.” But according to his secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, Trump is now expected to raise the issue when he meets Xi at the G20 Summit at the end of the month. This is only significant insofar as it reminds us of Trump’s transactional interest in the region.

As for Australia, Foreign Minister Marise Payne issued a fairly neutral statement in support of the Hong Kong people’s right to protest. It left many, including those in Sydney, Melbourne and elsewhere who protested in support of Hong Kong last week, somewhat underwhelmed.

Beyond the protests, how the current tensions unfold will have serious implications for Australia’s engagement in the region and our ongoing relationship with China. The 2017 Foreign Policy White Paper reinforces the core values underpinning our international engagement, including support for political, economic and religious freedoms, liberal democracy and the rule of law.

How and when we articulate our commitment to these values, and reinforce their place in our region, will be the key test of our diplomacy going forward.

Where do the protests go from here?

Lam’s decision to suspend consideration of the extradition bill offers a necessary moment for pause. But it hasn’t taken the heat out of the protests.

At this stage, Lam hasn’t backed away from her intent to revive the bill at a later stage. It’s also likely the Chinese government will continue to press towards that outcome, though perhaps in a different form and even under different leadership. Much hangs in the balance.

Hong Kong’s protesters appear galvanised by their cause. But whether they can sustain the necessary momentum for the long game — where crossing red lines may come at a cost — is another matter altogether.

 
(Caitlin Byrne is Director, Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/pressure-builds-with-more-protests-in-hong-kong-but-whats-the-end-game-118907">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

By Caitlin Byrne The latest protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, which organisers said brought some 2 million people to the streets, represented yet another striking show of “people power” in the semi-autonomous Chinese city.

By Caitlin Byrne The latest protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, which organisers said brought some 2 million people to the streets, represented yet another striking show of “people power” in the semi-autonomous Chinese city. Chief Executive Carrie Lam’s efforts to bring calm to Hong Kong included an uncharacteristic about-face on her position over the weekend, a rare apology and the indefinite suspension of the proposed changes to the city’s extradition laws, which sparked the initial protest against the government last weekend. But laden with qualifications and a subtle rebuke of the protesters, Lam’s repositioning of the issue has had limited impact, suggesting that she may have seriously underestimated the anger and determination of her constituency. The protesters are now calling for nothing less than her resignation, making her the “lightening rod” for public anger in the face of growing resentment towards Chinese influence in Hong Kong. As the people of Hong Kong continue to take to the streets, one wonders whether the real struggle has only just begun. How the fight over the extradition bill mushroomed For many, Lam’s controversial extradition bill represented the “thin edge of the wedge” of Chinese control. If passed, the proposed law could have seen local and foreign criminal suspects sent to mainland China to stand trial in a judicial system that is opaque and vastly uncompromising. But there’s much more at stake for the people, identity and prospects of Hong Kong. For those concerned about China’s rising influence in the city, the legislation represented a dangerous break in the firewall that has preserved civil liberties for the people of Hong Kong within the “one country, two systems” framework. While its proponents claim the bill has a narrow application, many fear it would enable China’s leadership to target political opponents, entrepreneurs and activists as part of its wider strategy for exercising control over the region. The implications for Hong Kong’s reputation as a vibrant global financial, business and transit hub would be significant. Of course, the latest demonstrations cannot be viewed in isolation – they are the latest chapter in Hong Kong’s longstanding tradition of public dissent. And there have been some notable successes in the past, including the indefinite suspension of plans to implement a national security law in 2003 and the reversal of a proposed comprehensive national curriculum in 2012. Yet, as the 2014 Umbrella Movement protests revealed, the mood in Hong Kong appears to be taking on a more sombre tone. Much of this reflects the changing mood within China. Under President Xi Jinping, civil protests — even those organised in the special autonomous region of Hong Kong — are increasingly fraught. Xi himself set the tone with a particularly hard-line speech during his 2017 visit to the city for Lam’s swearing-in. Flagging new levels of intolerance for activities that might be interpreted as encouraging Hong Kong independence from China, Xi noted: Any attempt to endanger China’s sovereignty and security, challenge the power of the central government … or use Hong Kong to carry out infiltration and sabotage activities against the mainland is an act that crosses the red line and is absolutely impermissible. Despite the efforts of China’s state-run Global Times newspaper to lay blame for the “uncontrolled street politics” on “Western forces” and “malice from afar”, however, Chinese political authorities have remained relatively quiet on the Hong Kong protests this week. This is unsurprising. Coming just a week after the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protests, China was never likely to take an openly provocative stance against the protesters. But it is clear Beijing is keeping a close eye on the situation, pushing back on criticisms from abroad and now possibly wavering in its support for Lam. Ever sensitive to external critiques that relate to questions of sovereignty, the Chinese government may decide to take a harder line should the protests continue to gather momentum. Lack of foreign pressure Thus far, the response to the protests has been relatively muted. The European Union has called for the rights of the Hong Kong people to be respected, noting its concern for the “potentially far-reaching consequences” of the extradition bill. UK Prime Minister Theresa May, meanwhile, has called on authorities to ensure the extradition arrangements “are in line with the rights and freedoms” set forth in the joint declaration when the British handed Hong Kong back to China in 1997. US President Donald Trump has remained ambivalent so far, saying only last week, “I’m sure they’ll be able to work it all out.” But according to his secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, Trump is now expected to raise the issue when he meets Xi at the G20 Summit at the end of the month. This is only significant insofar as it reminds us of Trump’s transactional interest in the region. As for Australia, Foreign Minister Marise Payne issued a fairly neutral statement in support of the Hong Kong people’s right to protest. It left many, including those in Sydney, Melbourne and elsewhere who protested in support of Hong Kong last week, somewhat underwhelmed. Beyond the protests, how the current tensions unfold will have serious implications for Australia’s engagement in the region and our ongoing relationship with China. The 2017 Foreign Policy White Paper reinforces the core values underpinning our international engagement, including support for political, economic and religious freedoms, liberal democracy and the rule of law. How and when we articulate our commitment to these values, and reinforce their place in our region, will be the key test of our diplomacy going forward. Where do the protests go from here? Lam’s decision to suspend consideration of the extradition bill offers a necessary moment for pause. But it hasn’t taken the heat out of the protests. At this stage, Lam hasn’t backed away from her intent to revive the bill at a later stage. It’s also likely the Chinese government will continue to press towards that outcome, though perhaps in a different form and even under different leadership. Much hangs in the balance. Hong Kong’s protesters appear galvanised by their cause. But whether they can sustain the necessary momentum for the long game — where crossing red lines may come at a cost — is another matter altogether. (Caitlin Byrne is Director, Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pressure mounts on Hong Kong leader with more protests against Chinese extradition bill

Hong Kong&nbsp;activist Joshua Wong called on the city's pro-China leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chief-executive-carrie-lam-apologises-for-conflicts-and-disputes-in-hong-kong-227674">Carrie Lam</a> to resign after he was released from prison Monday, a day after one of the largest street protests in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-clog-streets-in-hong-kong-demand-carrie-lams-resignation-227593">Hong Kong’s history</a> forced an apology from the city’s top official over a divisive extradition bill.

"She is no longer qualified to be Hong Kong's leader. She must take the blame and resign, be held accountable and step down," Wong told reporters.

Joshua Wong Chi-fung is a Hong Kong pro-democracy activist. He was one of the leaders of the 2014 Occupy Movement. In August 2017, he was jailed for six months for&nbsp;storming the government ­headquarters compound at ­Tamar, Admiralty, which sparked the 79-day protest.

Hong Kong protesters: Chief Executive Lam must go 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protesters-chief-executive-lam-must-go-227604/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Wong was released from prison one month early, as the government reels from one of the largest mass protests since the former British colony’s return two decades ago.

"I will join to fight against this evil law," said Wong, 22, who was one of the leaders of the 2014 "Umbrella" pro-democracy protests that blocked major roads in the Chinese-ruled city for 79 days.

"I believe this is the time for her, Carrie Lam the liar, to step down."

Before he was jailed, both Wong and his supporters had called for the Hong Kong government to scrap the extradition proposal.

Wong was just 17 when he stood at the forefront of the broad civil disobedience movement that presented China's Communist Party rulers in Beijing with one of their biggest political challenges in decades.

The protests against the extradition bill have become the most significant challenge to China's relationship with the territory since it was handed back by Britain 22 years ago.

While Lam delayed the bill at the weekend, it has yet to be completely shelved, despite widespread concern that the status of Hong Kong as a financial hub could be eroded by changes to the rule of law.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong called on the city's pro-China leader Carrie Lam to resign after he was released from prison Monday, a day after one of the largest street protests in Hong Kong’s history forced an apology from the city’s top official over a divisive extradition bill.

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong called on the city's pro-China leader Carrie Lam to resign after he was released from prison Monday, a day after one of the largest street protests in Hong Kong’s history forced an apology from the city’s top official over a divisive extradition bill. "She is no longer qualified to be Hong Kong's leader. She must take the blame and resign, be held accountable and step down," Wong told reporters. Joshua Wong Chi-fung is a Hong Kong pro-democracy activist. He was one of the leaders of the 2014 Occupy Movement. In August 2017, he was jailed for six months for storming the government headquarters compound at Tamar, Admiralty, which sparked the 79-day protest. Hong Kong protesters: Chief Executive Lam must go Wong was released from prison one month early, as the government reels from one of the largest mass protests since the former British colony’s return two decades ago. "I will join to fight against this evil law," said Wong, 22, who was one of the leaders of the 2014 "Umbrella" pro-democracy protests that blocked major roads in the Chinese-ruled city for 79 days. "I believe this is the time for her, Carrie Lam the liar, to step down." Before he was jailed, both Wong and his supporters had called for the Hong Kong government to scrap the extradition proposal. Wong was just 17 when he stood at the forefront of the broad civil disobedience movement that presented China's Communist Party rulers in Beijing with one of their biggest political challenges in decades. The protests against the extradition bill have become the most significant challenge to China's relationship with the territory since it was handed back by Britain 22 years ago. While Lam delayed the bill at the weekend, it has yet to be completely shelved, despite widespread concern that the status of Hong Kong as a financial hub could be eroded by changes to the rule of law. (With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong freed from jail, calls on pro-China leader Carrie Lam to resign

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-firmly-support-hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-china-227947">Will 'firmly support' Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam: China</a>

Beijing reiterated its backing of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Monday after a massive demonstration demanding her resignation over a controversial extradition bill.

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Willing to join investigation, will travel to India as soon as I'm medically fit: Mehul Choksi Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Monday submitted an affidavit in the High Court of Judicature at Bombay with details of his diseases.

Willing to join investigation, will travel to India as soon as I'm medically fit: Mehul Choksi Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Monday submitted an affidavit in the High Court of Judicature at Bombay with details of his diseases. Choksi stated that he has left the country for medical treatment and has not fled. After talks with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal doctors set to call off strike The joint forum of regional junior doctors, after their meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday, said that they were satisfied with meeting and measures proposed by the government, adding that they will go to the NRS Hospital and announce the withdrawal of their strike today. Will exceed enriched uranium limit in 10 days: Iran Iran said Monday it will surpass from June 27 its uranium stockpile limit set under the nuclear deal with world powers, turning up the pressure after the US walked away from the landmark pact last year. Will 'firmly support' Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam: China Beijing reiterated its backing of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Monday after a massive demonstration demanding her resignation over a controversial extradition bill. China's Xi Jinping to visit North Korea this week ahead of G20 Xi Jinping will make the first trip to North Korea by a Chinese president in 14 years this week, state media said Monday, as Beijing tightens relations with Pyongyang amid tensions with the United States.

Beijing reiterated its backing of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Monday after a massive demonstration demanding her resignation over a controversial extradition bill.

Protest organisers said some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-clog-streets-in-hong-kong-demand-carrie-lams-resignation-227593">2 million people choked Hong Kong's streets</a> on Sunday -- despite Lam's decision to indefinitely suspend the passage of the bill a day earlier.

Critics fear the Beijing-backed law will entangle people in China's notoriously opaque and politicised courts and damage the city's reputation as a safe business hub.

Although Lam <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chief-executive-carrie-lam-apologises-for-conflicts-and-disputes-in-hong-kong-227674">offered a rare concession</a> on Saturday, she stopped short of committing to permanently scrapping the unpopular law.

Her gesture was swiftly rejected by protest leaders who called on her to resign, shelve the bill entirely and apologise for police using tear gas and rubber bullets earlier in the week.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-is-hong-kongs-china-extradition-plan-so-controversial-226044">Why is Hong Kong's China extradition plan so controversial?</a>

But Lam -- the first woman to get the international financial hub's top job -- continues to enjoy support from the Chinese leadership.

"The central government will continue to firmly support the chief executive and efforts by the government of the Special Administrative Region to govern according to law," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told a regular briefing.

Watch: 'Carrie Lam must step down,' says freed Hong Kong activist

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Lam took over as Hong Kong's chief executive in March 2017 when a committee stacked with Beijing loyalists voted her into office.

Beijing had earlier backed Lam's decision to suspend the bill saying it was an attempt to "listen more widely" to different views and "restore calm."

But Lu from China's foreign ministry said the protests are "not in line with the mainstream public opinion in Hong Kong."

"Many facts have shown that foreign governments and even some politicians have been making inflammatory remarks since the decision of the Hong Kong government to start amending the extradition ordinance in February," Lu said.

Beijing reiterated its backing of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Monday after a massive demonstration demanding her resignation over a controversial extradition bill.

Beijing reiterated its backing of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Monday after a massive demonstration demanding her resignation over a controversial extradition bill. Protest organisers said some 2 million people choked Hong Kong's streets on Sunday -- despite Lam's decision to indefinitely suspend the passage of the bill a day earlier. Critics fear the Beijing-backed law will entangle people in China's notoriously opaque and politicised courts and damage the city's reputation as a safe business hub. Although Lam offered a rare concession on Saturday, she stopped short of committing to permanently scrapping the unpopular law. Her gesture was swiftly rejected by protest leaders who called on her to resign, shelve the bill entirely and apologise for police using tear gas and rubber bullets earlier in the week. In pics: Why is Hong Kong's China extradition plan so controversial? But Lam -- the first woman to get the international financial hub's top job -- continues to enjoy support from the Chinese leadership. "The central government will continue to firmly support the chief executive and efforts by the government of the Special Administrative Region to govern according to law," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told a regular briefing. Watch: 'Carrie Lam must step down,' says freed Hong Kong activist × Lam took over as Hong Kong's chief executive in March 2017 when a committee stacked with Beijing loyalists voted her into office. Beijing had earlier backed Lam's decision to suspend the bill saying it was an attempt to "listen more widely" to different views and "restore calm." But Lu from China's foreign ministry said the protests are "not in line with the mainstream public opinion in Hong Kong." "Many facts have shown that foreign governments and even some politicians have been making inflammatory remarks since the decision of the Hong Kong government to start amending the extradition ordinance in February," Lu said.

Will 'firmly support' Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam: China

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