Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie&nbsp;Lam on Tuesday said that the&nbsp;people arrested by China at sea while trying to flee the city by boat are not "democratic activists being oppressed" and "should accept the legal liabilities".

The 12 were arrested on August&nbsp;23 for illegal entry into mainland China after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for self-ruled Taiwan, amid a crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy activists in the former British colony.

Speaking at her regular weekly news conference,&nbsp;Lam&nbsp;reiterated that the 12 will have to face justice in the mainland and that her government will provide them and their families with the "needed and feasible" assistance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/families-express-fear-over-china-capturing-12-hong-kongers-during-flee-attempt-327408" hreflang="en">Families express fear over China capturing 12 Hong Kongers during flee attempt</a>

"The reason for them leaving Hong Kong seems to be that they were running away from legal responsibility,"&nbsp;Lam&nbsp;said.

"I want to set the record straight, because certain local and overseas individuals tried to shift the attention, describing them as democratic (activists) being oppressed."

Lam's comments come after relatives of some of the detainees held a news conference on Saturday to demand their urgent return and plead for them to be allowed to call home and consult lawyers appointed by the families and not the Chinese government.

Hours before the families' appearance, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was deeply concerned about the activists, noting they had been denied access to lawyers.

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China's foreign ministry on Sunday labelled the group "separatists". Police in the Chinese city of Shenzhen, where they are being held, said on Sunday they were suspected of illegal entry, its first public notice on the matter.

23 for illegal entry into the mainland after taking off on a boat bound for Taiwan as pro-democracy activists fear Beijing's crackdown.

The government said all 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong, with 11 charged with offences of arson and manufacturing or possessing of explosives. One was suspected of colluding with foreign forces, a charge under the national security law imposed by Beijing in June and could lead to life imprisonment.

Relatives of the 12, the youngest a boy aged 16, held a news conference on Saturday (September 12) demanding their return.

&nbsp;

Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam on Tuesday said that the people arrested by China at sea while trying to flee the city by boat are not "democratic activists being oppressed" and "should accept the legal liabilities".

Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam on Tuesday said that the people arrested by China at sea while trying to flee the city by boat are not "democratic activists being oppressed" and "should accept the legal liabilities". The 12 were arrested on August 23 for illegal entry into mainland China after setting off from Hong Kong in a boat bound for self-ruled Taiwan, amid a crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy activists in the former British colony. Speaking at her regular weekly news conference, Lam reiterated that the 12 will have to face justice in the mainland and that her government will provide them and their families with the "needed and feasible" assistance. Also read: Families express fear over China capturing 12 Hong Kongers during flee attempt "The reason for them leaving Hong Kong seems to be that they were running away from legal responsibility," Lam said. "I want to set the record straight, because certain local and overseas individuals tried to shift the attention, describing them as democratic (activists) being oppressed." Lam's comments come after relatives of some of the detainees held a news conference on Saturday to demand their urgent return and plead for them to be allowed to call home and consult lawyers appointed by the families and not the Chinese government. Hours before the families' appearance, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was deeply concerned about the activists, noting they had been denied access to lawyers. Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms breeds vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous societies that flourish because their governments are accountable to their citizens. The U.S. will always stand for democracy. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) September 15, 2020 × China's foreign ministry on Sunday labelled the group "separatists". Police in the Chinese city of Shenzhen, where they are being held, said on Sunday they were suspected of illegal entry, its first public notice on the matter. 23 for illegal entry into the mainland after taking off on a boat bound for Taiwan as pro-democracy activists fear Beijing's crackdown. The government said all 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong, with 11 charged with offences of arson and manufacturing or possessing of explosives. One was suspected of colluding with foreign forces, a charge under the national security law imposed by Beijing in June and could lead to life imprisonment. Relatives of the 12, the youngest a boy aged 16, held a news conference on Saturday (September 12) demanding their return.

Hong Kong leader says 12 arrested at sea by China 'should accept legal liability'

China on Friday told UN experts to stop "meddling" in its affairs after the agency's special advisors published a letter raising fears for Hong Kong's freedoms after the enactment of a draconian new security law.

"Some people disregard facts and... crudely interfere in China's internal affairs," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters, urging the UN advisors to stop "meddling" in its business.

UN&nbsp;human rights experts had told China that&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's&nbsp;new security law&nbsp;"infringes on certain fundamental rights" and voiced concerns that it could be used to prosecute political activists in the former British colony.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-no-legal-authority-to-enact-security-law-for-hong-kong-bar-association-301040">China has no legal authority to enact security law for Hong Kong: Bar Association</a>

Beijing has faced a barrage of criticism over the law, which was imposed in late June after pro-democracy protests rocked the semi-autonomous city last year.

The law, which criminalises secession, subversion, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces, carries a maximum life sentence and has intimidated many protesters into silence.

In a rare joint letter made public on Friday,&nbsp;the UN advisers warned parts of the legislation "appear to criminalise freedom of expression or any form of criticism" of China.

"The National Security Law... poses a serious risk that those fundamental freedoms and due process protections may be infringed upon," the rapporteurs said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/national-security-law-and-end-of-hong-kong-as-we-know-it-311585">National Security Law and end of Hong Kong as we know it</a>

The letter warned the legislation may "impinge impermissibly on the rights to freedom of opinion, expression and of peaceful assembly."

The rapporteurs had urged China's "reconsideration" of the legislation and for a fully independent reviewer to be appointed to ensure it complies with China's international human rights obligations.

They also expressed concern over one of the most controversial points of the law, which allows cases can be transferred from the jurisdiction of Hong Kong to mainland China, and warned it could undermine the right to a fair trial.

48 hours after it was sent to the Chinese government, they also said provisions of the new law appear to undermine the independence of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's judges and lawyers, and the right to freedom of expression.

The "open letter" reflected a detailed legal analysis of the national security law imposed in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;on June 30, which had already drawn UN&nbsp;criticism before its adoption.

The 14-page letter, posted on the website of the UN&nbsp;human rights office, was sent by Fionnuala Ni Aolain, UN&nbsp;special rapporteur on protecting human rights while countering terrorism, and six other UN&nbsp;experts.

The broadly worded law criminalised certain political speech overnight, such as advocating sanctions, and greater autonomy or independence for Hong Kong.

Lawyers acting for some of the more than 20 people arrested under the law so far say police are trawling through historic actions of pro-democracy activists to beef-up their cases.

China on Friday told UN experts to stop "meddling" in its affairs after the agency's special advisors published a letter raising fears for Hong Kong's freedoms after the enactment of a draconian new security law.

China on Friday told UN experts to stop "meddling" in its affairs after the agency's special advisors published a letter raising fears for Hong Kong's freedoms after the enactment of a draconian new security law. "Some people disregard facts and... crudely interfere in China's internal affairs," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters, urging the UN advisors to stop "meddling" in its business. UN human rights experts had told China that Hong Kong's new security law "infringes on certain fundamental rights" and voiced concerns that it could be used to prosecute political activists in the former British colony. Also read| China has no legal authority to enact security law for Hong Kong: Bar Association Beijing has faced a barrage of criticism over the law, which was imposed in late June after pro-democracy protests rocked the semi-autonomous city last year. The law, which criminalises secession, subversion, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces, carries a maximum life sentence and has intimidated many protesters into silence. In a rare joint letter made public on Friday, the UN advisers warned parts of the legislation "appear to criminalise freedom of expression or any form of criticism" of China. "The National Security Law... poses a serious risk that those fundamental freedoms and due process protections may be infringed upon," the rapporteurs said. Also read: National Security Law and end of Hong Kong as we know it The letter warned the legislation may "impinge impermissibly on the rights to freedom of opinion, expression and of peaceful assembly." The rapporteurs had urged China's "reconsideration" of the legislation and for a fully independent reviewer to be appointed to ensure it complies with China's international human rights obligations. They also expressed concern over one of the most controversial points of the law, which allows cases can be transferred from the jurisdiction of Hong Kong to mainland China, and warned it could undermine the right to a fair trial. 48 hours after it was sent to the Chinese government, they also said provisions of the new law appear to undermine the independence of Hong Kong's judges and lawyers, and the right to freedom of expression. The "open letter" reflected a detailed legal analysis of the national security law imposed in Hong Kong on June 30, which had already drawn UN criticism before its adoption. The 14-page letter, posted on the website of the UN human rights office, was sent by Fionnuala Ni Aolain, UN special rapporteur on protecting human rights while countering terrorism, and six other UN experts. The broadly worded law criminalised certain political speech overnight, such as advocating sanctions, and greater autonomy or independence for Hong Kong. Lawyers acting for some of the more than 20 people arrested under the law so far say police are trawling through historic actions of pro-democracy activists to beef-up their cases.

China warns UN of 'meddling' in affairs after it denounced Hong Kong security law

As Hong Kong began mass coronavirus tests on Tuesday, pro-democracy leader Joshua Wong said that the reputation of the Chinese funded COVID-19 testing organization has already been "very bad with false confirmed cases reported."

Watch:

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At least 510,000 people have signed up to take the free test since Saturday, however, the presence of Chinese doctors and testing firms has made it a controversial issue with some accusing China of harvesting DNA of Hong Kong residents amid the imposition of the dreaded national security law which has led to renewed tensions between the residents and security forces.

"I hope Hong Kong citizens think twice as the current situation is like having a pregnancy test without having birth control," Joshua Wong said, adding, "to shut the border is the best way out."

Wong said that he called for a boycott after a Swedish report cited high rates of 3,700 false positive kits from a firm involved in the programme which had questioned the accuracy of the testing.

Beijing's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office hit back at those opposing testing calling them "anti-China radicals" with a "vile disregard" for public health.

Hong Kong has recorded just over 4,800 infections so far, however, there are renewed fears of a third wave of infections which began two months ago with the number of cases rising. In July, Hong Kong had recorded 150 cases a day leading to concern among authorities trying to combat the virus in a city which has largely kept the virus under control.

The testing which began on Tuesday will be carried out between a week and two weeks depending on public demand. 
&nbsp;

As Hong Kong began mass coronavirus tests on Tuesday, pro-democracy leader Joshua Wong said that the reputation of the Chinese funded COVID-19 testing organization has already been "very bad with false confirmed cases reported.

As Hong Kong began mass coronavirus tests on Tuesday, pro-democracy leader Joshua Wong said that the reputation of the Chinese funded COVID-19 testing organization has already been "very bad with false confirmed cases reported." Watch: At least 510,000 people have signed up to take the free test since Saturday, however, the presence of Chinese doctors and testing firms has made it a controversial issue with some accusing China of harvesting DNA of Hong Kong residents amid the imposition of the dreaded national security law which has led to renewed tensions between the residents and security forces. "I hope Hong Kong citizens think twice as the current situation is like having a pregnancy test without having birth control," Joshua Wong said, adding, "to shut the border is the best way out." Wong said that he called for a boycott after a Swedish report cited high rates of 3,700 false positive kits from a firm involved in the programme which had questioned the accuracy of the testing. Beijing's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office hit back at those opposing testing calling them "anti-China radicals" with a "vile disregard" for public health. Hong Kong has recorded just over 4,800 infections so far, however, there are renewed fears of a third wave of infections which began two months ago with the number of cases rising. In July, Hong Kong had recorded 150 cases a day leading to concern among authorities trying to combat the virus in a city which has largely kept the virus under control. The testing which began on Tuesday will be carried out between a week and two weeks depending on public demand.

'To shut border is best way out': Hong Kong begins mass coronavirus tests amid boycott calls

Police have arrested Hong Kong opposition lawmakers in relation to anti-government protests in July last year

Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmakers arrested over 2019 Yuen Long protests

The effect of the new national-security law that China imposed on Hong Kong is extending far beyond the territory to American college campuses.

Your Story: American college campuses now in Beijing's reach

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been released from police custody, over a day after being detained under a sweeping security law imposed by China.

Hong Kong pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai released on bail

China has begun punishing Hong Kong's pro-democracy voices. Apple Daily owner Jimmy Lai was arrested this morning. He has been accused of collusion with foreign forces. Does this move mark the end of free speech in Hong Kong?

Gravitas: First high-profile arrest under the Hong Kong Security Law

Hong Kong-based media tycoon Jimmy Lai was arrested for allegedly violating the Hong Kong Security Law.&nbsp; 71-years-old Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces. Lai is one of Hong Kong' most prominent pro-democracy voices and his tabloid The Apple Daily routinely questions the leadership in Hong Kong and mainland China.

In the past, Lai was sent rotten animal entrails on mail. China called him a traitor and the black hand behind last year's protests before vaguely-worded Hong Kong Security Law was introduced June 10 and exactly 2 months later, it made the most high-profile arrest under the law. Support poured in for Lai and The Apple Daily from across the world.&nbsp;

US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo said Lai's arrest is further proof that the Chinese Communist Party has 'eviscerated Hong Kong's freedom and eroded the rights of its people'. Canada said that Hong Kong leadership must uphold all human rights &amp; fundamental freedoms, including media freedom &amp; freedom of speech.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that Lai's arrest was evidence of how the national security law is being used as a pretext to silence opposition. In India, WION began a campaign in support of Hong Kong's democracy.

How did Hong Kong react to Lai's arrest?

In a way, Beijing had never expected. China wanted to scare people by arresting Lai. It wanted to set an example that if you speak about democracy, or speak against the mainland you will end up arrested like&nbsp;Lai. China also wanted to keep Hongkongers from to keep away from pro-democracy papers like The Apple Daily.

China's move backfired. Apple Daily became Hong Kong's biggest media house overnight. Its stocks jumped 1400% in the last 2 days. The Apple Daily stood strong in the face of its owner's arrest. The tabloid increased its number of copies. Instead of printing around 70,000 copies, it printed 500,000 copies today. People queued up in front of the newspaper stands to buy them. Hongkongers showed their support for Lai and The Apple Daily buy picking up hundreds of copies.

Jimmy Lai was released on bail this evening. The entire episode blew up on China's face and the dragon is now staring at rather un-nerving implications.

Lai's arrest has become a rallying point for a bigger protest. China just proved its critics right by abusing the security law. Lai has become the global face of Hong Kong's resistance to China. &nbsp;Back in Hong Kong, the 71-year-old was already extremely popular, now he has become a hero. Experts say he has become the face of Hong Kong protests. Lai's is a rag to riches story.

He was born at Guangdong in China. He fled to Hong Kong at the age of 12 and toiled in shops and taught himself English and today, he is the owner of a clothing empire and a media house. Hongkongers are already referring to him as a freedom fighter. The moment Hong Kong put up a united front in support of Jimmy Lai, China was forced to release him on bail.&nbsp; China wanted to set an example by arresting Jimmy Lai

WION stands with The Apple Daily. Join us in our campaign.

Hong Kong-based media tycoon Jimmy Lai was arrested for allegedly violating the Hong Kong Security Law. 71-years-old Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces.

Hong Kong-based media tycoon Jimmy Lai was arrested for allegedly violating the Hong Kong Security Law. 71-years-old Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces. Lai is one of Hong Kong' most prominent pro-democracy voices and his tabloid The Apple Daily routinely questions the leadership in Hong Kong and mainland China. In the past, Lai was sent rotten animal entrails on mail. China called him a traitor and the black hand behind last year's protests before vaguely-worded Hong Kong Security Law was introduced June 10 and exactly 2 months later, it made the most high-profile arrest under the law. Support poured in for Lai and The Apple Daily from across the world. US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo said Lai's arrest is further proof that the Chinese Communist Party has 'eviscerated Hong Kong's freedom and eroded the rights of its people'. Canada said that Hong Kong leadership must uphold all human rights & fundamental freedoms, including media freedom & freedom of speech. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that Lai's arrest was evidence of how the national security law is being used as a pretext to silence opposition. In India, WION began a campaign in support of Hong Kong's democracy. How did Hong Kong react to Lai's arrest? In a way, Beijing had never expected. China wanted to scare people by arresting Lai. It wanted to set an example that if you speak about democracy, or speak against the mainland you will end up arrested like Lai. China also wanted to keep Hongkongers from to keep away from pro-democracy papers like The Apple Daily. China's move backfired. Apple Daily became Hong Kong's biggest media house overnight. Its stocks jumped 1400% in the last 2 days. The Apple Daily stood strong in the face of its owner's arrest. The tabloid increased its number of copies. Instead of printing around 70,000 copies, it printed 500,000 copies today. People queued up in front of the newspaper stands to buy them. Hongkongers showed their support for Lai and The Apple Daily buy picking up hundreds of copies. Jimmy Lai was released on bail this evening. The entire episode blew up on China's face and the dragon is now staring at rather un-nerving implications. Lai's arrest has become a rallying point for a bigger protest. China just proved its critics right by abusing the security law. Lai has become the global face of Hong Kong's resistance to China. Back in Hong Kong, the 71-year-old was already extremely popular, now he has become a hero. Experts say he has become the face of Hong Kong protests. Lai's is a rag to riches story. He was born at Guangdong in China. He fled to Hong Kong at the age of 12 and toiled in shops and taught himself English and today, he is the owner of a clothing empire and a media house. Hongkongers are already referring to him as a freedom fighter. The moment Hong Kong put up a united front in support of Jimmy Lai, China was forced to release him on bail. China wanted to set an example by arresting Jimmy Lai WION stands with The Apple Daily. Join us in our campaign.

How arrest of Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai back fired

Hong Kong residents have rallied behind the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily after its founder Jimmy Lai was detained

Hong Kong Security Law: Jimmy Lai to be soon released on bail

Hong Kong: Jimmy Lai's apple daily vows to fight on | HK Security Law | World News

Hong Kong business tycoon Jimmy Lai has been arrested and his newspaper offices raided by police over allegations of collusion with foreign forces.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai arrested under new security law | Hong Kong top news | WION

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson discussed China's actions in Hong Kong and its treatment of Muslims in Xinjiang, Reuters report stated quoting a British summary of the discussion.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson discussed China's actions in Hong Kong and its treatment of Muslims in Xinjiang, Reuters report stated quoting a British summary of the discussion. "They spoke about shared global security and foreign policy issues, including China's actions in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, the situation in Iran and the Middle East Peace Process," Downing Street said. "The Prime Minister and Secretary of State also underlined their commitment to negotiate a strong UK-US Free Trade Agreement that benefits the economies of both countries." Johnson and Pompeo also underscored the importance of the US-led Five Eyes intelligence alliance, according to the report. Johnson also raised the death of 19-year-old Briton Harry Dunn who was killed in a road collision with a US diplomat's wife. "The Prime Minister reiterated the need for justice to be done for Harry Dunn and his family," Downing Street said. "He said there was a strong feeling among the people of the UK that justice must be delivered." Foreign Minister Dominic Raab said Britain, the United States and other allies needed to stand up for their values on the international stage, speaking alongside U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in London on Tuesday. "The UK is really clear that we need to work with our American friends, and also with other partners together in the international system to protect our freedoms and interest and stand up, as we've shown over Hong Kong, stand up for our values," he said. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Dominic Raab said Britain, the United States and other allies needed to stand up for their values on the international stage, speaking alongside Pompeo in London. "The UK is really clear that we need to work with our American friends, and also with other partners together in the international system to protect our freedoms and interest and stand up, as we've shown over Hong Kong, stand up for our values," he said. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pompeo and Johnson discuss China's actions in Hong Kong and Xinjiang

Britain on Monday suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong "immediately and indefinitely" in response to China's introduction of a controversial new security law in the territory, according to AFP.

Britain on Monday suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong "immediately and indefinitely" in response to China's introduction of a controversial new security law in the territory, according to AFP. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab confirmed the widely expected move in parliament, and also said London would extend its arms embargo on "potentially lethal weapons" to the financial hub, the report added. "We've got to have a calibrated response and we're going to be tough on some things, but also are going to continue to engage," the British PM told reporters earlier. As per the extradition treaty which is in place for more than 30 years, a Hong Kong crime suspect in Britain would be handed over to Hong Kong and vice versa. However, Britian fears that China will take advantage of this treaty after bringing the security law, which means a Hong Kong suspect could be sent to China. Earlier, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin asked Britain to "stop going further down the wrong path", when asked about the suspension of the treaty. London says the security law compromises with the guarantees of freedoms, including an independent judiciary that are a part of much democratic Hong Kong.

UK suspends extradition treaty with Hong Kong after controversial security law

The United Kingdom on Monday will suspend its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over the introduction of draconian security law by the Chinese administration.&nbsp;

The move is set to further damage relations between London and Beijing, which became tensed due to a host of measures, including China's respose to the coronavirus crisis and Huawei among others.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-security-law-sends-jitters-through-citys-feisty-press-314362">Hong Kong security law sends jitters through city's feisty press</a>

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would announce late on Monday changes with regards to the security law, but did not give specific details of the measures.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-suspends-extradition-with-hong-kong-to-protest-china-security-law-310546">Canada suspends extradition with Hong Kong to protest China security law</a>

"We've got to have a calibrated response and we're going to be tough on some things, but also are going to continue to engage," the British PM told reporters.

As per the extradition treaty which is in place for more than 30 years, a Hong Kong crime suspect in Britain would be handed over to Hong Kong and vice versa.

However, Britian fears that China will take advantage of this treaty after bringing the security law, which means a Hong Kong suspect could be sent to China.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin asked Britain to "stop going further down the wrong path", when asked about the suspension of the treaty.&nbsp;

London says the security law compromises with the guarantees of freedoms, including an independent judiciary that are a part of much democratic Hong Kong.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The United Kingdom on Monday will suspend its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over the introduction of draconian security law by the Chinese administration. The move is set to further damage relations between London and Beijing, which became tensed due to a host of measures, including China's respose to the coronavirus crisis and Huawei among others.

The United Kingdom on Monday will suspend its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over the introduction of draconian security law by the Chinese administration. The move is set to further damage relations between London and Beijing, which became tensed due to a host of measures, including China's respose to the coronavirus crisis and Huawei among others. Also read | Hong Kong security law sends jitters through city's feisty press Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would announce late on Monday changes with regards to the security law, but did not give specific details of the measures. Also read | Canada suspends extradition with Hong Kong to protest China security law "We've got to have a calibrated response and we're going to be tough on some things, but also are going to continue to engage," the British PM told reporters. As per the extradition treaty which is in place for more than 30 years, a Hong Kong crime suspect in Britain would be handed over to Hong Kong and vice versa. However, Britian fears that China will take advantage of this treaty after bringing the security law, which means a Hong Kong suspect could be sent to China. Earlier, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin asked Britain to "stop going further down the wrong path", when asked about the suspension of the treaty. London says the security law compromises with the guarantees of freedoms, including an independent judiciary that are a part of much democratic Hong Kong.

Boris Johnson says 'tough' actions as UK set to suspend extradition treaty

Hong Kong's status as a bastion of press freedom is in crisis as authorities toughen their line against international media and fears grow about local self-censorship under the city's sweeping new security law.

For decades the former British colony has been a shining light for journalists in Asia, lying on the fringes of an authoritarian China where the ruling Communist Party keeps a tight grip on public opinion.

The civil liberties that have stewarded the city's success were promised to Hong Kongers for another 50 years under a deal that returned the trading hub to Chinese rule in 1997.

But Beijing's new national security law -- imposed in response to last year's huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests -- has sent a shiver through the financial hub's media landscape.

"It's a body blow. It's the end of press freedom as we knew it in Hong Kong," Yuen Chan, a former local reporter now lecturing at London's City University, told AFP.

The New York Times, CNN, Bloomberg, the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, the Financial Times and AFP are among numerous international media outlets with a presence in the city, many basing their regional headquarters there.

Free from the harassment, censorship and restrictions pervasive on the authoritarian Chinese mainland, semi-autonomous Hong Kong has thrived as a safe haven for both local and foreign reporters.

But signs of the sands shifting have begun to emerge since China introduced its draconian new law earlier this month.

On Tuesday the New York Times announced it would relocate a third of its staff to Seoul, saying it faced unprecedented trouble obtaining visas.

Hong Kong authorities recently launched a review of independent but state-funded broadcaster RTHK following accusations it was overly sympathetic to pro-democracy protests.

Immediately after the security law was passed, two columnists quit the city's rambunctious Apple Daily newspaper, a staunch advocate for greater democracy.

The tabloid is owned by Jimmy Lai, a tycoon who Chinese state media has labelled a leading "black hand" colluding with foreign forces to destroy the mainland.

OPEN SEASON

Beijing has made little secret of its desire to rein in Hong Kong's media, both domestic and foreign.

One provision of the national security law orders authorities to "strengthen the management" of foreign news organisations.

"It seems like they are starting to at least consider using the visa as a means to punish the people they don't like," said Keith Richburg, director of the Journalism and Media Studies Centre at the University of Hong Kong and a former foreign correspondent for the Washington Post.

In 2018, Financial Times journalist Victor Mallet was refused a visa renewal weeks after he hosted a talk at the city's foreign press club with an independence activist.

Sharron Fast, deputy director at Hong Kong University's journalism programme, said the clause about foreign media in the new law "sounds ominously like Hong Kong will move towards a China-style press credential requirement".

The legislation also grants the territory's police and China's intelligence apparatus sweeping surveillance powers, something Fast said could make it harder for journalists to protect their sources.

"It is basically open season on interception of communications and online surveillance," she told AFP.

Much of the law is broadly worded and criminalises certain speech, such as a ban on instigating hatred towards the government or advocating independence.

Journalists fear they may inadvertently cross a red line by reporting what others say.

SELF CENSORSHIP

Media groups warn local outlets are particularly vulnerable.

Hong Kong reporters have historically been a crucial conduit of information out of mainland China. &nbsp;

And the city's press corps routinely barrages officials with the kind of critical questioning that would be unthinkable north of the border.

Last week, city leader Carrie Lam was asked if she could "100 percent guarantee" media freedoms.

Her reply was that if reporters "guarantee that they will not commit any offences under this piece of national legislation", then she could.

However, even before the security law, local media were under pressure, with advertising often drying up for the most Beijing-critical outlets.

"The problem of self-censorship, which has already been a concern, will get worse," said Chris Yeung from the Hong Kong Journalists Association.

"It is likely that the mainland-style media control system and mechanism will be gradually introduced in Hong Kong."

But London City University lecturer Chan said the press would not be easily tamed.

"Journalists in Hong Kong will do as much as they can for as long as they can," she said.

Apple Daily boss Lai was asked in an online Q&amp;A on Friday about the future of his reporting staff.

"It's very difficult to protect them. All I can do is tell them to do things according to their conscience," he said.&nbsp;

"I cannot ask them to be a martyr."

Hong Kong's status as a bastion of press freedom is in crisis as authorities toughen their line against international media and fears grow about local self-censorship under the city's sweeping new security law.

Hong Kong's status as a bastion of press freedom is in crisis as authorities toughen their line against international media and fears grow about local self-censorship under the city's sweeping new security law. For decades the former British colony has been a shining light for journalists in Asia, lying on the fringes of an authoritarian China where the ruling Communist Party keeps a tight grip on public opinion. The civil liberties that have stewarded the city's success were promised to Hong Kongers for another 50 years under a deal that returned the trading hub to Chinese rule in 1997. But Beijing's new national security law -- imposed in response to last year's huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests -- has sent a shiver through the financial hub's media landscape. "It's a body blow. It's the end of press freedom as we knew it in Hong Kong," Yuen Chan, a former local reporter now lecturing at London's City University, told AFP. The New York Times, CNN, Bloomberg, the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, the Financial Times and AFP are among numerous international media outlets with a presence in the city, many basing their regional headquarters there. Free from the harassment, censorship and restrictions pervasive on the authoritarian Chinese mainland, semi-autonomous Hong Kong has thrived as a safe haven for both local and foreign reporters. But signs of the sands shifting have begun to emerge since China introduced its draconian new law earlier this month. On Tuesday the New York Times announced it would relocate a third of its staff to Seoul, saying it faced unprecedented trouble obtaining visas. Hong Kong authorities recently launched a review of independent but state-funded broadcaster RTHK following accusations it was overly sympathetic to pro-democracy protests. Immediately after the security law was passed, two columnists quit the city's rambunctious Apple Daily newspaper, a staunch advocate for greater democracy. The tabloid is owned by Jimmy Lai, a tycoon who Chinese state media has labelled a leading "black hand" colluding with foreign forces to destroy the mainland. OPEN SEASON Beijing has made little secret of its desire to rein in Hong Kong's media, both domestic and foreign. One provision of the national security law orders authorities to "strengthen the management" of foreign news organisations. "It seems like they are starting to at least consider using the visa as a means to punish the people they don't like," said Keith Richburg, director of the Journalism and Media Studies Centre at the University of Hong Kong and a former foreign correspondent for the Washington Post. In 2018, Financial Times journalist Victor Mallet was refused a visa renewal weeks after he hosted a talk at the city's foreign press club with an independence activist. Sharron Fast, deputy director at Hong Kong University's journalism programme, said the clause about foreign media in the new law "sounds ominously like Hong Kong will move towards a China-style press credential requirement". The legislation also grants the territory's police and China's intelligence apparatus sweeping surveillance powers, something Fast said could make it harder for journalists to protect their sources. "It is basically open season on interception of communications and online surveillance," she told AFP. Much of the law is broadly worded and criminalises certain speech, such as a ban on instigating hatred towards the government or advocating independence. Journalists fear they may inadvertently cross a red line by reporting what others say. SELF CENSORSHIP Media groups warn local outlets are particularly vulnerable. Hong Kong reporters have historically been a crucial conduit of information out of mainland China. And the city's press corps routinely barrages officials with the kind of critical questioning that would be unthinkable north of the border. Last week, city leader Carrie Lam was asked if she could "100 percent guarantee" media freedoms. Her reply was that if reporters "guarantee that they will not commit any offences under this piece of national legislation", then she could. However, even before the security law, local media were under pressure, with advertising often drying up for the most Beijing-critical outlets. "The problem of self-censorship, which has already been a concern, will get worse," said Chris Yeung from the Hong Kong Journalists Association. "It is likely that the mainland-style media control system and mechanism will be gradually introduced in Hong Kong." But London City University lecturer Chan said the press would not be easily tamed. "Journalists in Hong Kong will do as much as they can for as long as they can," she said. Apple Daily boss Lai was asked in an online Q&A on Friday about the future of his reporting staff. "It's very difficult to protect them. All I can do is tell them to do things according to their conscience," he said. "I cannot ask them to be a martyr."

Hong Kong security law sends jitters through city's feisty press

Hundreds of thousands of Hong Kong citizens queued to cast ballots over the weekend in what the Chinese-ruled city's opposition camp says is a symbolic protest vote against tough national security laws directly imposed by Beijing.

Hundreds of thousands of Hong Kong citizens queued to cast ballots over the weekend in what the Chinese-ruled city's opposition camp says is a symbolic protest vote against tough national security laws directly imposed by Beijing. The unofficial poll will decide the strongest pro-democracy candidates to contest Legislative Council elections in September, when they aim to ride a wave of anti-China sentiment stirred by the law to seize control for the first time from pro-Beijing rivals. While the primaries are only for the opposition camp, observers are watching closely as they say the turnout will serve as a test of broader opposition to the law, which critics say will gravely undermine the city's freedoms. "A high turnout will send a very strong signal to the international community, that we Hong Kongers never give up," said Sunny Cheung, 24, one of a batch of aspiring young democrats out lobbying and giving stump speeches. "And that we still stand with the democratic camp, we still support democracy and freedom." Also read | Hong Kong democracts hold primary despite security law warning Defying warnings from a senior Hong Kong official that the vote might fall foul of the national security law, residents young and old flocked to over 250 polling stations across the city, manned by thousands of volunteers. Long queues formed down streets, in residential estates and at businesses-turned-polling stations, with people casting an online ballot on their mobile phones after having their identities verified. Organisers said 500,000 people had voted by late afternoon on Sunday, in the city of 7.5 million. The full turnout is expected to be announced on Monday morning after two full days of voting this weekend. Also read | Five ways Hong Kong has changed under China's security law The law punishes what China describes broadly as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison and allows mainland security agents to operate officially in Hong Kong for the first time. Despite this tactical vote to maximise their chances, some pro-democracy activists fear authorities will try to stop some candidates from running in September's election. "They can arrest or disqualify any candidate they don't like under the national security law without a proper reason," said Owen Chow, a young democratic "localist" candidate. At a time when Hong Kong authorities have barred public marches and rallies for months on end amid coronavirus social restrictions, and arrested individuals for shouting slogans and holding up blank sheets of paper, the vote is being seen as a crucial and rare window for populist expression. "It's a proxy referendum against the national security law," said Democratic lawmaker Eddie Chu outside a metro station.

500,000 Hong Kongers cast 'protest' vote against new security laws

Hong Kong’s opposition camp set up polling booths across the Chinese-ruled city on Saturday for primary elections aimed at selecting democracy candidates who stand the best chance of success in Legislative Council elections in September.

The primaries come less than two weeks after Beijing imposed sweeping national security legislation on the Asian financial hub, stoking concerns that wide-ranging freedoms not seen in mainland China will be crushed.

The law punishes what China describes broadly as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison and allows mainland security agents to operate officially in Hong Kong for the first time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-democracts-hold-primary-despite-security-law-warning-312668">Also watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong democracts hold primary despite security law warning</a>

On the eve of the primaries, police searched the office of independent pollster Robert Chung, whose Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute (HKPORI) helps organise the election, raising concerns among activists of interference in the poll.

“The primary election is our first time to let Beijing know Hong Kongers never bow down to China,” said pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong ahead of the opening of polling booths at noon (0400 GMT).

“We urge the world to put Hong Kong under the global spotlight.”

While the primaries are only for the opposition camp, observers are watching closely as they say the turnout at the election will serve as a litmus test of broader opposition to the national security law.

The election seeks to bolster the chance for democracy candidates to achieve a 35-plus majority in the 70-seat legislature in polls on September 6, potentially giving them power to block government proposals.

Hong Kong’s opposition camp secured a landslide victory in district council elections in November, riding on support for an anti-government protest movement triggered by a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial.

Protests that escalated in June last year and evolved into calls for greater democracy have fizzled since police arrested more than 300 people on July 1, the day after Beijing introduced the national security law.

Hong Kong’s opposition camp set up polling booths across the Chinese-ruled city on Saturday for primary elections aimed at selecting democracy candidates who stand the best chance of success in Legislative Council elections in September.

Hong Kong’s opposition camp set up polling booths across the Chinese-ruled city on Saturday for primary elections aimed at selecting democracy candidates who stand the best chance of success in Legislative Council elections in September. The primaries come less than two weeks after Beijing imposed sweeping national security legislation on the Asian financial hub, stoking concerns that wide-ranging freedoms not seen in mainland China will be crushed. The law punishes what China describes broadly as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison and allows mainland security agents to operate officially in Hong Kong for the first time. Also watch: Hong Kong democracts hold primary despite security law warning On the eve of the primaries, police searched the office of independent pollster Robert Chung, whose Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute (HKPORI) helps organise the election, raising concerns among activists of interference in the poll. “The primary election is our first time to let Beijing know Hong Kongers never bow down to China,” said pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong ahead of the opening of polling booths at noon (0400 GMT). “We urge the world to put Hong Kong under the global spotlight.” While the primaries are only for the opposition camp, observers are watching closely as they say the turnout at the election will serve as a litmus test of broader opposition to the national security law. The election seeks to bolster the chance for democracy candidates to achieve a 35-plus majority in the 70-seat legislature in polls on September 6, potentially giving them power to block government proposals. Hong Kong’s opposition camp secured a landslide victory in district council elections in November, riding on support for an anti-government protest movement triggered by a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial. Protests that escalated in June last year and evolved into calls for greater democracy have fizzled since police arrested more than 300 people on July 1, the day after Beijing introduced the national security law.

Hong Kong opposition kicks off primary elections under shadow of security law

The controversial Hong Kong security law has been adopted in China. Beijing's move could now trigger a fresh wave of protests in the region. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how China's decision to impose the new security law will end Hong Kong's "One Country, Two Systems".

Gravitas: How China plans to choke Hong Kong

TikTok said it will exit the Hong Kong market within days, Reuters report said quoting a spokesman of the company as saying on late Monday. The development comes as other technology companies including Facebook have blocked the Hong Kong government from accessing user data in the region.

TikTok said it will exit the Hong Kong market within days, Reuters report said quoting a spokesman of the company as saying on late Monday. The development comes as other technology companies including Facebook have blocked the Hong Kong government from accessing user data in the region. The short-form video app owned by China-based ByteDance has made the decision to exit the region following China's establishment of a sweeping new national security law for the semi-autonomous city, the report added. "In light of recent events, we've decided to stop operations of the TikTok app in Hong Kong," a TikTok spokesman said in response to a Reuters question about its commitment to the market. The company, now run by former Walt Disney Co executive Kevin Mayer, has said in the past that the app's user data is not stored in China. (With inputs from Reuters)

TikTok will exit Hong Kong market within days, says company spokesman

Facebook, Google and Twitter said Monday they have stopped giving information on users to Hong Kong's government or police force, following China's imposition of draconian security law, according to AFP report.

Facebook, Google and Twitter said Monday they have stopped giving information on users to Hong Kong's government or police force, following China's imposition of draconian security law, according to AFP report. The pause at leading online social network Facebook and its popular messaging service WhatsApp would remain in place "pending further assessment" of the new national security law, and would include "formal human rights due diligence and consultations with human rights experts," the report said quoting a statement by a Facebook spokesman. "We believe freedom of expression is a fundamental human right and support the right of people to express themselves without fear for their safety or other repercussions," the spokesman said. Also read: Five ways Hong Kong has changed under China's security law Twitter and Google told that they too would not comply with information requests by Hong Kong authorities in the immediate future, the report added. "Like many public interest organizations, civil society leaders and entities, and industry peers, we have grave concerns regarding both the developing process and the full intention of this law," Twitter reportedly told AFP. "Twitter cares and is committed to protecting the people using our service and their freedom of expression." China last week imposed the security law on the restive city of around 7.5 million people, banning acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. Also read: China has no legal authority to enact security law for Hong Kong: Bar Association The law stipulates that trials can be held behind closed doors without juries, with offenders subject to a maximum of a life sentence. The legislation, which has sent a wave of fear through the territory, has criminalized dissenting opinions such as calls for independence or autonomy. "Last Wednesday, when the law took effect, we paused production on any new data requests from Hong Kong authorities, and we'll continue to review the details of the new law," a Google spokesperson said. Digital rights group ProPrivacy called Facebook's move "a win for both digital privacy and human rights in the region." "With the stakes so high, and the punishments so severe, it is great news to see big tech companies like WhatsApp pushing back in favour of democracy and freedom of expression," the group said. However, it noted the move could lead to WhatsApp being blocked in Hong Kong, as it has been in mainland China. (With inputs from AFP)

Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessing user data

China has unveiled new powers to censor Hong Kong's internet and access user data using its feared national security law. Tech giants Google, Facebook, and Twitter have suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong due to China’s new national security law.

WION Dispatch: Push back against Security Law | Tech giants resist sharing users

Hong Kong's national security law imposed by Beijing last week was not "doom and gloom" for the city, its leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, adding it was untrue to say she was not privy to any of its details before they were announced.

Hong Kong's national security law imposed by Beijing last week was not "doom and gloom" for the city, its leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday, adding it was untrue to say she was not privy to any of its details before they were announced. The sweeping legislation punishes what China describes broadly as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison. It came into force at the same time it was made public just before midnight last Tuesday, with police arresting about 10 people for related offences the next day. Speaking at her regular weekly news conference, Lam said she knew some details of the legislation before it was made public, but she had not seen the complete draft. She said the law would restore Hong Kong's status as one of the safest cities in the world after sometimes violent pro-democracy protests last year. "Compared with the national security laws of other countries, it is a rather mild law. Its scope is not as broad as that in other countries and even China," Lam said, without naming the countries. The legislation has been criticised by nations such as Britain and the United States, and rights groups, for undermining freedoms guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" agreed as part of the former British colony's return to Chinese rule in 1997, and for giving mainland security agencies an enforcement presence in Hong Kong for the first time. Its final power of interpretation lies with authorities in mainland China, where human rights groups have reported arbitrary detentions and disappearances. China has been clamping down on dissent and tightening censorship. Both Hong Kong and Chinese government officials have said the law was vital to plug gaping holes in national security defences, exposed by the city’s failure to pass such laws by itself as required under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law. Lam said cases involving the new mainland agency in Hong Kong will be "rare" and that national security was a "red line" that should not be crossed. If reporters in Hong Kong could guarantee they would not breach the new law, she could guarantee they would be allowed to report freely in the city, Lam said. Late on Monday, Hong Kong released additional details of the law, saying security forces had overriding authority to enter and search properties for evidence and stop people from leaving the city.

Hong Kong security law is not 'doom and gloom,' city leader says

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday slammed China's 'Orwellian' censorship moves in Hong Kong. ''With the ink barely dry on the draconian National Security Law, Hong Kong authorities are now removing books from libraries, banning political slogans, and requiring censorship in schools,'' he said in a tweet.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday slammed China's 'Orwellian' censorship moves in Hong Kong. ''With the ink barely dry on the draconian National Security Law, Hong Kong authorities are now removing books from libraries, banning political slogans, and requiring censorship in schools,'' he said in a tweet. Also read: 'Hidden language': Hong Kongers get creative against security law ''The US condemns these Orwellian assaults on the rights and freedoms of the Hong Kong people,'' he added. With the ink barely dry on the draconian National Security Law, HK authorities are now removing books from libraries, banning political slogans, and requiring censorship in schools. The U.S. condemns these Orwellian assaults on the rights and freedoms of the Hong Kong people. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) July 7, 2020 × Hours after China passed the draconian national security law on the finance hub, books written by prominent Hong Kong democracy activists have started disappearing from the city's libraries in the aftermath of China imposing a draconian national security law on the finance hub. Beijing's new national security law is the most radical shift in how the semi-autonomous city is run since it was handed back to China by Britain in 1997. Among the authors whose titles are no longer available are Joshua Wong, one of the city's most prominent young activists, and Tanya Chan, a well known pro-democracy lawmaker. Searches on the public library website showed at least three titles by Wong, Chan and local scholar Chin Wan are no longer available for lending at any of dozens of outlets across the city. Also read: Democracy books disappear from Hong Kong libraries The local government recently said that the popular protest slogan "Liberate Hong Kong, the revolution of our times" would now be deemed illegal. For some, the phrase represents genuine aspirations to split Hong Kong from China, a red line for Beijing, but for many others, it is a more general cry for democracy and an expression of rising frustration with Chinese rule.

Mike Pompeo slams China's 'Orwellian' censorship moves in Hong Kong

By Horace Yeung and Flora Huang

Following the introduction of a new Chinese national security law, some are questioning the sustainability of Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre. These doubts are augmented by China’s plans to transform Hainan, another island off the southern coast of the Chinese mainland, into a free-trade hub. This further calls into question the idea that Hong Kong is irreplaceable for some.

But Hong Kong’s success as a centre of international finance, connecting the world to mainland China, is built on several foundations. These include having a stable business environment, the free flow of capital, low tax rates and a reliable legal system based on English common law.

While we cannot underestimate some individuals’ fears that they may be arbitrarily detained under the new national security law, there is also evidence that the law will curb the social unrest that has been detrimental to business in Hong Kong. Crucially, our research supports the idea that Hong Kong’s legal system remains stronger than China’s for international business activity. This will ensure it has a competitive edge over China for the time being.

Under Article 8 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong, which serves as the city’s de facto constitution, Hong Kong has a common law system that it inherited from the UK. In this kind of legal system, judges have the ability to make laws in the form of case law, which is determined by rulings on legal precedents. This makes Hong Kong’s legal system much stronger than China’s civil law system, where vast numbers of laws have been written in recent decades but have not necessarily been tried, tested and applied yet.

The ability of judges to make new laws in a common law system means that any issues arising from rapidly evolving financial markets can be dealt with more efficiently. And there is also research showing that common law countries tend to be more responsive to investors’ interests. Hence, in Hong Kong’s new pitch book to the global financial industry, it emphasises the city’s “common law system familiar to international investors”.

Research shows that a robust legal system is of paramount importance to financial development. It makes investors feel more comfortable and thereby expands the size of financial markets.

In our research, we’ve found that Hong Kong’s economic success since the 1997 handover can be attributed to the “one country, two systems” principle. We argue this is due to its common law system and because Hong Kong has been able to maintain an independent set of company and financial laws from the ones in China.

Closing the gap 
 
Nevertheless, the regulatory gap between Hong Kong and China is becoming narrower and narrower. Nowadays, China is doing very well in investor protection – something that has been recognised by both the Centre for Business Research at the University of Cambridge and World Bank research. Generally speaking, investor-protection mechanisms include corporate transparency, shareholders’ decision rights, and their rights to sue when things go wrong. All of this contributes toward investors feeling that their money is adequately protected.

When the two stock markets in China were established in early 1990s, China did not even have a proper set of company and financial laws. But it has succeeded in writing the necessary laws and for the most part making sure they are stuck to.

In 2009 the Chinese government decided to turn Shanghai into an international financial centre. Shanghai is now home to the fourth-largest stock exchange in the world in terms of market capitalisation, with Hong Kong the fifth. Shanghai has also recently leapfrogged Hong Kong to the fourth in the recent Global Financial Centres Index, showing its increasing global recognition and competitiveness.

There have been many economic initiatives in China over the years to create new financial centres. Some have been more successful than others but the strategies of development have been similar. They do not go much beyond financial incentives and offering investors a more open business environment. Yet Shanghai, and indeed the rest of mainland China, still suffer from limitations like currency control and impartiality of judges. To pose more threats to Hong Kong, deeper reform may be required to address these shortcomings.

China is introducing a more case-based approach to its legal system, reflecting the importance of the common law system for international investors. But before this development gains more traction, we believe that Hong Kong still occupies a unique position in China’s future economic development given the prominence of English legal principles in international finance and commerce. Traditional English legal principles, such as good faith and the legal concept of trusts, still lie at the heart of the legal language of modern commerce. These have yet to become embedded in mainland China’s legal system.

(Horace Yeung is Associate Professor in Commercial Law, University of Leicester; Flora Huang is Professor of Law and Business, University of Derby) 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the<a href="https://theconversation.com/why-hong-kong-will-remain-an-international-financial-centre-despite-new-security-law-140603"> original article</a>) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

By Horace Yeung and Flora Huang Following the introduction of a new Chinese national security law, some are questioning the sustainability of Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre.

By Horace Yeung and Flora Huang Following the introduction of a new Chinese national security law, some are questioning the sustainability of Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre. These doubts are augmented by China’s plans to transform Hainan, another island off the southern coast of the Chinese mainland, into a free-trade hub. This further calls into question the idea that Hong Kong is irreplaceable for some. But Hong Kong’s success as a centre of international finance, connecting the world to mainland China, is built on several foundations. These include having a stable business environment, the free flow of capital, low tax rates and a reliable legal system based on English common law. While we cannot underestimate some individuals’ fears that they may be arbitrarily detained under the new national security law, there is also evidence that the law will curb the social unrest that has been detrimental to business in Hong Kong. Crucially, our research supports the idea that Hong Kong’s legal system remains stronger than China’s for international business activity. This will ensure it has a competitive edge over China for the time being. Under Article 8 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong, which serves as the city’s de facto constitution, Hong Kong has a common law system that it inherited from the UK. In this kind of legal system, judges have the ability to make laws in the form of case law, which is determined by rulings on legal precedents. This makes Hong Kong’s legal system much stronger than China’s civil law system, where vast numbers of laws have been written in recent decades but have not necessarily been tried, tested and applied yet. The ability of judges to make new laws in a common law system means that any issues arising from rapidly evolving financial markets can be dealt with more efficiently. And there is also research showing that common law countries tend to be more responsive to investors’ interests. Hence, in Hong Kong’s new pitch book to the global financial industry, it emphasises the city’s “common law system familiar to international investors”. Research shows that a robust legal system is of paramount importance to financial development. It makes investors feel more comfortable and thereby expands the size of financial markets. In our research, we’ve found that Hong Kong’s economic success since the 1997 handover can be attributed to the “one country, two systems” principle. We argue this is due to its common law system and because Hong Kong has been able to maintain an independent set of company and financial laws from the ones in China. Closing the gap Nevertheless, the regulatory gap between Hong Kong and China is becoming narrower and narrower. Nowadays, China is doing very well in investor protection – something that has been recognised by both the Centre for Business Research at the University of Cambridge and World Bank research. Generally speaking, investor-protection mechanisms include corporate transparency, shareholders’ decision rights, and their rights to sue when things go wrong. All of this contributes toward investors feeling that their money is adequately protected. When the two stock markets in China were established in early 1990s, China did not even have a proper set of company and financial laws. But it has succeeded in writing the necessary laws and for the most part making sure they are stuck to. In 2009 the Chinese government decided to turn Shanghai into an international financial centre. Shanghai is now home to the fourth-largest stock exchange in the world in terms of market capitalisation, with Hong Kong the fifth. Shanghai has also recently leapfrogged Hong Kong to the fourth in the recent Global Financial Centres Index, showing its increasing global recognition and competitiveness. There have been many economic initiatives in China over the years to create new financial centres. Some have been more successful than others but the strategies of development have been similar. They do not go much beyond financial incentives and offering investors a more open business environment. Yet Shanghai, and indeed the rest of mainland China, still suffer from limitations like currency control and impartiality of judges. To pose more threats to Hong Kong, deeper reform may be required to address these shortcomings. China is introducing a more case-based approach to its legal system, reflecting the importance of the common law system for international investors. But before this development gains more traction, we believe that Hong Kong still occupies a unique position in China’s future economic development given the prominence of English legal principles in international finance and commerce. Traditional English legal principles, such as good faith and the legal concept of trusts, still lie at the heart of the legal language of modern commerce. These have yet to become embedded in mainland China’s legal system. (Horace Yeung is Associate Professor in Commercial Law, University of Leicester; Flora Huang is Professor of Law and Business, University of Derby) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article)

Why Hong Kong will remain an international financial centre, despite new security law

The imposition of a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong has sent chills through&nbsp;Taiwan, deepening fears that Beijing will focus next on seizing the democratic self-ruled island.

China and&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;split in 1949 after nationalist forces lost a civil war to Mao Zedong's communists, fleeing to the island which Beijing has since vowed to seize one day, by force if necessary.

"The law makes me dislike China even more," 18-year-old student Sylvia Chang told AFP, walking through National&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;University in Taipei.

"They had promised 50 years unchanged for Hong Kong but they are getting all the more heavy-handed... I am worried Hong Kong today could be&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;tomorrow."

Over the years China has used a mixture of threats and inducements, including a promise&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;could have the "One Country, Two Systems" model that governs Hong Kong, supposedly guaranteeing key civil liberties and a degree of autonomy for 50 years after the city's 1997 handover.

Both&nbsp;Taiwan's two largest political parties long ago rejected the offer, and the new security law has incinerated what little remaining faith many Taiwanese may have had in Beijing's outreach.

Some now fear even transiting through Hong Kong, worried that their social media profiles could see them open to prosecution under the legislation.

The law "makes China look so bad, distancing themselves even further from Hong Kongers, not to mention people across the strait in&nbsp;Taiwan", Alexander Huang, a political analyst at Tamkang University in Taipei, told AFP.

'Hong Kong today,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;tomorrow'&nbsp;

Beijing has taken an especially hard line towards&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), ramping up military, economic and diplomatic pressure.

Tsai views&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as a de facto independent nation and not part of "one China".

But the pressure campaign has done little to endear China to&nbsp;Taiwan's 23 million people.

In January, Tsai won a second term with a historic landslide and polls consistently show a growing distrust of China.

A record 67 percent now self-identify as "Taiwanese" instead of either Taiwanese-Chinese or Chinese -- a ten percent increase on the year before -- according to a routine poll conducted by the National Chengchi University.&nbsp;

In 1992, that figure was just 18 percent.

In recent decades&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;has morphed from a brutal autocracy into one of Asia's most progressive democracies.

Younger Taiwanese tend to be especially wary of its huge authoritarian neighbour.&nbsp;

Social media is filled with messages of support for Hong Kong's democracy movement. Some back Taiwanese independence, or highlight China's rights abuses in regions such as Tibet and Xinjiang.&nbsp;

Wendy Peng, a 26-year-old magazine editor who said she often shared pro-Hong Kong democracy messages on social media, said she would now avoid visiting the city.&nbsp;

"The national security law makes me wonder how far would China go. Right now I don't see a bottom line and there's probably none. I think it's possible they will target&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;next," she said.

Universal jurisdiction&nbsp;

Peng's fears are not unfounded.&nbsp;

As well as allowing China's security apparatus to set up shop openly in Hong Kong for the first time, Beijing's security law claims universal jurisdiction.&nbsp;

Article 38 says security crimes can be committed anywhere in the world by people of any nationality.

Hong Kong police have made clear that support for Hong Kong,&nbsp;Taiwan, Tibet or Xinjiang independence is now illegal.&nbsp;

University employee Patrick Wu, 31, said he would now avoid even transiting through Hong Kong.&nbsp;

"It's like a blanket law, whatever China wants to define and interpret," he told AFP. "I don't know if the 'Likes' or messages I have left on social media will be prosecutable."

Last week Chen Ming-tong, the minister for&nbsp;Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, accused Beijing of aiming to become a supremely powerful "heavenly empire" by ordering "subjects all over the world" to obey its law.

Lin Fei-fan, deputy secretary-general of the ruling DPP, warned that "regular Taiwanese people" might now face arrest in "manufactured cases" if they went to Hong Kong.&nbsp;

He cited China's jailing of Taiwanese NGO worker Lee Ming-che under the mainland's own subversion laws.&nbsp;

Lee was arrested in 2017 during a trip to the mainland and held incommunicado for months before his eventual fate was made public.

Sung Chen-en, a political commentator and columnist in Taipei, said Beijing's new security law "creates a great uncertainty about what can be said" far beyond Hong Kong's borders.

"If everyone is watching his own expression of opinions, it creates a chilling effect on democracy," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"If everybody is exercising constraint, there is no freedom at all."

The imposition of a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong has sent chills through Taiwan, deepening fears that Beijing will focus next on seizing the democratic self-ruled island.

The imposition of a sweeping national security law on Hong Kong has sent chills through Taiwan, deepening fears that Beijing will focus next on seizing the democratic self-ruled island. China and Taiwan split in 1949 after nationalist forces lost a civil war to Mao Zedong's communists, fleeing to the island which Beijing has since vowed to seize one day, by force if necessary. "The law makes me dislike China even more," 18-year-old student Sylvia Chang told AFP, walking through National Taiwan University in Taipei. "They had promised 50 years unchanged for Hong Kong but they are getting all the more heavy-handed... I am worried Hong Kong today could be Taiwan tomorrow." Over the years China has used a mixture of threats and inducements, including a promise Taiwan could have the "One Country, Two Systems" model that governs Hong Kong, supposedly guaranteeing key civil liberties and a degree of autonomy for 50 years after the city's 1997 handover. Both Taiwan's two largest political parties long ago rejected the offer, and the new security law has incinerated what little remaining faith many Taiwanese may have had in Beijing's outreach. Some now fear even transiting through Hong Kong, worried that their social media profiles could see them open to prosecution under the legislation. The law "makes China look so bad, distancing themselves even further from Hong Kongers, not to mention people across the strait in Taiwan", Alexander Huang, a political analyst at Tamkang University in Taipei, told AFP. 'Hong Kong today, Taiwan tomorrow' Beijing has taken an especially hard line towards Taiwan since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), ramping up military, economic and diplomatic pressure. Tsai views Taiwan as a de facto independent nation and not part of "one China". But the pressure campaign has done little to endear China to Taiwan's 23 million people. In January, Tsai won a second term with a historic landslide and polls consistently show a growing distrust of China. A record 67 percent now self-identify as "Taiwanese" instead of either Taiwanese-Chinese or Chinese -- a ten percent increase on the year before -- according to a routine poll conducted by the National Chengchi University. In 1992, that figure was just 18 percent. In recent decades Taiwan has morphed from a brutal autocracy into one of Asia's most progressive democracies. Younger Taiwanese tend to be especially wary of its huge authoritarian neighbour. Social media is filled with messages of support for Hong Kong's democracy movement. Some back Taiwanese independence, or highlight China's rights abuses in regions such as Tibet and Xinjiang. Wendy Peng, a 26-year-old magazine editor who said she often shared pro-Hong Kong democracy messages on social media, said she would now avoid visiting the city. "The national security law makes me wonder how far would China go. Right now I don't see a bottom line and there's probably none. I think it's possible they will target Taiwan next," she said. Universal jurisdiction Peng's fears are not unfounded. As well as allowing China's security apparatus to set up shop openly in Hong Kong for the first time, Beijing's security law claims universal jurisdiction. Article 38 says security crimes can be committed anywhere in the world by people of any nationality. Hong Kong police have made clear that support for Hong Kong, Taiwan, Tibet or Xinjiang independence is now illegal. University employee Patrick Wu, 31, said he would now avoid even transiting through Hong Kong. "It's like a blanket law, whatever China wants to define and interpret," he told AFP. "I don't know if the 'Likes' or messages I have left on social media will be prosecutable." Last week Chen Ming-tong, the minister for Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, accused Beijing of aiming to become a supremely powerful "heavenly empire" by ordering "subjects all over the world" to obey its law. Lin Fei-fan, deputy secretary-general of the ruling DPP, warned that "regular Taiwanese people" might now face arrest in "manufactured cases" if they went to Hong Kong. He cited China's jailing of Taiwanese NGO worker Lee Ming-che under the mainland's own subversion laws. Lee was arrested in 2017 during a trip to the mainland and held incommunicado for months before his eventual fate was made public. Sung Chen-en, a political commentator and columnist in Taipei, said Beijing's new security law "creates a great uncertainty about what can be said" far beyond Hong Kong's borders. "If everyone is watching his own expression of opinions, it creates a chilling effect on democracy," he told AFP. "If everybody is exercising constraint, there is no freedom at all."

'We're next': Hong Kong security law sends chills through Taiwan

Senior officials in Hong Kong said on Saturday they were "very disappointed" at Canada's decision to suspend its extradition treaty with the Chinese-ruled city and again slammed Washington for "interfering" in its affairs.

Canada suspends its extradition treaty with Hong Kong

Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters work their way around the new law. Hong Kong protesters are resorting to creative ways to voice their dissent.

Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters work their way around new law

Five ways Hong Kong has changed under China's security law

China has slapped a draconian new law on Hong Kong.

The world is worried for the people of Hong Kong, for the city's democracy and their own people who live and work in the special administration region.

Close to 30 countries have spoken out against the Chinese move, some have even announced sanctions and visa restrictions on Beijing.

As WION questioned India's silence, India delivered a statement on Hong Kong at the United Nations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bureaucrat-eric-chan-to-head-hong-kongs-national-security-committee-310134">Also watch|&nbsp;Bureaucrat Eric Chan to head Hong Kong's national Security Committee</a>

New Delhi said, "Given the large Indian community that makes the Hong Kong special administrative region of China its home, India has been keeping a close watch on recent developments. We have heard several statements expressing concern on these developments. We hope the relevant parties will take into account these views and address them properly, seriously and objectively."

In case you are wondering why so many nations are concerned about Hong Kong, then you must know that the repercussions of this new law go much beyond the borders of Hong Kong.

It applies to everyone who lives on this planet. This law is China's messaging to the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-security-law-to-uphold-stability-in-hong-kong-says-chinese-foreign-ministry-310153">Also watch|&nbsp;'New security law to uphold stability in Hong Kong', says Chinese Foreign Ministry</a>

What the national security law means for the world

The national security law has transformed Hong Kong into a black hole. Landing in the city means getting sucked into China's dysfunctional legal system. You could be arrested for violating this draconian law, and you may never find out what your fault is. China will place it under a clause of its choice -- secession, subverion, terrorism or colluding with external forces.

If you are opinionated and happen to speak up against repression, annexation, provocation or even the coronavirus, then Hong Kong is henceforth a no-go zone for you. In other words, this city is as good as gone from the global map.

Gone with it is the world's eighth busiest airport -- one that hosts at least 196,000 passengers daily and connects 220 destinations, and also happens to be the world's largest cargo centre. At least 120 airlines have flights to Hong Kong. There is no word on how many of them will resume operations to the city.

Also lost is the world's sixth-largest financial hub. One that houses over 9,000 foreign firms -- at least one and a half thousand of them have regional headquarters in Hong Kong. What attracted businesses to Hong Kong was the city's freedom from Chinese laws, that no longer holds true.

Lost with Hong Kong's democracy is its importance in the business landscape. The city has a sizeable expat population -- at least 690,000 foreigners living in the city, half of whom are from the Philippines and Indonesia. There are at least 35,000 Britons and 14,000 Americans.

Staying in Hong Kong means opening your homes to Chinese laws.

Hong Kong's loss comes at a heavy cost to the world and India too will be feeling the pinch, be it in terms of people or exports. Close to 7,160 people of Indian origin reside in Hong Kong, and 31,569 non-resident Indians.&nbsp;

India exports pearls, semi-precious stones, mineral fuels, electrical machinery, leather,&nbsp;iron, steel, fish apparel from Hong Kong. India also imports&nbsp;fruits, nuts, paper, plastic, clocks, medical instruments and watches to Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is probably the most expensive collateral damage in China's evidently damaging quest for world power.

China has slapped a draconian new law on Hong Kong. The world is worried for the people of Hong Kong, for the city's democracy and their own people who live and work in the special administration region.

China has slapped a draconian new law on Hong Kong. The world is worried for the people of Hong Kong, for the city's democracy and their own people who live and work in the special administration region. Close to 30 countries have spoken out against the Chinese move, some have even announced sanctions and visa restrictions on Beijing. As WION questioned India's silence, India delivered a statement on Hong Kong at the United Nations. Also watch| Bureaucrat Eric Chan to head Hong Kong's national Security Committee New Delhi said, "Given the large Indian community that makes the Hong Kong special administrative region of China its home, India has been keeping a close watch on recent developments. We have heard several statements expressing concern on these developments. We hope the relevant parties will take into account these views and address them properly, seriously and objectively." In case you are wondering why so many nations are concerned about Hong Kong, then you must know that the repercussions of this new law go much beyond the borders of Hong Kong. It applies to everyone who lives on this planet. This law is China's messaging to the world. Also watch| 'New security law to uphold stability in Hong Kong', says Chinese Foreign Ministry What the national security law means for the world The national security law has transformed Hong Kong into a black hole. Landing in the city means getting sucked into China's dysfunctional legal system. You could be arrested for violating this draconian law, and you may never find out what your fault is. China will place it under a clause of its choice -- secession, subverion, terrorism or colluding with external forces. If you are opinionated and happen to speak up against repression, annexation, provocation or even the coronavirus, then Hong Kong is henceforth a no-go zone for you. In other words, this city is as good as gone from the global map. Gone with it is the world's eighth busiest airport -- one that hosts at least 196,000 passengers daily and connects 220 destinations, and also happens to be the world's largest cargo centre. At least 120 airlines have flights to Hong Kong. There is no word on how many of them will resume operations to the city. Also lost is the world's sixth-largest financial hub. One that houses over 9,000 foreign firms -- at least one and a half thousand of them have regional headquarters in Hong Kong. What attracted businesses to Hong Kong was the city's freedom from Chinese laws, that no longer holds true. Lost with Hong Kong's democracy is its importance in the business landscape. The city has a sizeable expat population -- at least 690,000 foreigners living in the city, half of whom are from the Philippines and Indonesia. There are at least 35,000 Britons and 14,000 Americans. Staying in Hong Kong means opening your homes to Chinese laws. Hong Kong's loss comes at a heavy cost to the world and India too will be feeling the pinch, be it in terms of people or exports. Close to 7,160 people of Indian origin reside in Hong Kong, and 31,569 non-resident Indians. India exports pearls, semi-precious stones, mineral fuels, electrical machinery, leather, iron, steel, fish apparel from Hong Kong. India also imports fruits, nuts, paper, plastic, clocks, medical instruments and watches to Hong Kong. Hong Kong is probably the most expensive collateral damage in China's evidently damaging quest for world power.

China's Hong Kong security law: a threat to the whole world

At least 10 people were arrested under the new law, police said, which came into force late Tuesday evening.

10 people arrested under Hong Kong's new security law

China's cabinet has appointed Eric Chan as the head of the new Hong Kong national security committee. Watch report.

Fineprint: Eric Chan to head HK National Security Body | Security Law

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