Article 38 of the National Security Law says that it applies to non-residents of Hong Kong as well as crimes committed outside the region. This puts thousands of foreign nationals who travelled to Hong Kong including Indians at risk. Watch report.

HK Security Law will be applied to foreign nationals also, says Article 38

Hong Kong government has entered into a contract with a UK-based PR firm worth over £5m to improve its global image amid widespread criticism.&nbsp;

The Hong Kong adminsitration said its contract with London-based firm Consulum will be of one-year, which would help in rebuilding "confidence in Hong Kong as a place to invest, do business, work and live", reported Independent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-breaching-international-law-warns-china-as-pm-johnson-promises-citizenship-to-hong-kongers-310119">UK breaching international law, warns China as PM Johnson promises citizenship to Hong Kongers</a>&nbsp;

The document titled as 'Relaunch Hong Kong' and first reported by industry website Provoke, acknowledged that the Hong Kong government did not effectively "defend" itself or "mobilise" the community to support law enforcement measures and condemn acts, including "vandalism and the criminal and violent behaviour of rioters".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uks-passport-plan-australia-working-on-safe-haven-proposal-for-hong-kong-residents-310096">After UK's passport plan, Australia working on 'safe haven' proposal for Hong Kong residents</a>

"This had a negative impact on global perceptions about Hong Kong," the document said.&nbsp;

The £5.6m contract was finalised after a bid from seven PR firms across the world. Consulum was earlier criticised for working with Saudi administration.&nbsp;

Hong Kong administration has started defending the contract, with Brett Free, deputy director of information, saying that it would allow the region to "reconnect with global audiences".&nbsp;

The contract came at a time when several countries and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong have slammed China's new security law that aimed to tighten control over the semi-autonomous region.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, police used water cannon, pepper spray and tear gas in clashes with protesters and arrested 370 people who were demonstrating against the legislation imposed by China on Tuesday. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong government has entered into a contract with a UK-based PR firm worth over £5m to improve its global image amid widespread criticism. The Hong Kong adminsitration said its contract with London-based firm Consulum will be of one-year, which would help in rebuilding "confidence in Hong Kong as a place to invest, do business, work and live", reported Independent.

Hong Kong government has entered into a contract with a UK-based PR firm worth over £5m to improve its global image amid widespread criticism. The Hong Kong adminsitration said its contract with London-based firm Consulum will be of one-year, which would help in rebuilding "confidence in Hong Kong as a place to invest, do business, work and live", reported Independent. Also read | UK breaching international law, warns China as PM Johnson promises citizenship to Hong Kongers The document titled as 'Relaunch Hong Kong' and first reported by industry website Provoke, acknowledged that the Hong Kong government did not effectively "defend" itself or "mobilise" the community to support law enforcement measures and condemn acts, including "vandalism and the criminal and violent behaviour of rioters". Also read | After UK's passport plan, Australia working on 'safe haven' proposal for Hong Kong residents "This had a negative impact on global perceptions about Hong Kong," the document said. The £5.6m contract was finalised after a bid from seven PR firms across the world. Consulum was earlier criticised for working with Saudi administration. Hong Kong administration has started defending the contract, with Brett Free, deputy director of information, saying that it would allow the region to "reconnect with global audiences". The contract came at a time when several countries and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong have slammed China's new security law that aimed to tighten control over the semi-autonomous region. On Wednesday, police used water cannon, pepper spray and tear gas in clashes with protesters and arrested 370 people who were demonstrating against the legislation imposed by China on Tuesday.

Hong Kong govt enters into £5m contract with PR firm to improve global image

Hong Kong authorities threw a security blanket across the city early on Wednesday, the 23rd anniversary of the former British colony's handover to Chinese rule, hours after new national security legislation took effect in the financial hub.

Hk activists call for protests over security law near handover anniversary venue

Boris Johnson has raises the stakes in a brewing confrontation with China on July 1 promising to allow nearly 3 million people from Hong Kong to live and work in Britain if Beijing moves forward with the new National Security Law. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: UK extends Hong Kong immigration rights, National Security Law

Taiwan opened an office on July 1 to help people fleeing Hong Kong after China imposed new national security laws in the city, with a senior minister saying Taiwan hoped to seize the opportunity to attract professionals and capital from the city. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: President Tsai pledges support for Hong Kong, Taiwan opens new office to help HK

Hong Kong marks handover anniversary as security law takes effect

China must reconsider its sweeping national security law imposed on Hong Kong which "undermines" the city's freedoms, 27 countries said in a joint statement Tuesday.

China must reconsider its sweeping national security law imposed on Hong Kong which "undermines" the city's freedoms, 27 countries said in a joint statement Tuesday. Beijing must also allow the United Nations rights chief meaningful access to its western Xinjiang province, said the states -- including Britain, France, Germany and Japan -- in a rare oral rebuke of China at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Julian Braithwaite, Britain's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, read the statement at the council, on behalf of all the signatories. The 27 countries have "deep and growing concerns" over the new security law, which has clear implications on the human rights of people in Hong Kong, the statement said. Imposing the law without the direct participation of Hong Kong's people, legislature or judiciary "undermines" the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle guaranteeing Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy, rights and freedoms, the signatories said. "We urge the Chinese and Hong Kong governments to reconsider the imposition of this legislation and to engage Hong Kong's people, institutions and judiciary to prevent further erosion of the rights and freedoms that the people of Hong Kong have enjoyed for many years," the statement said. Signatories included Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland and 15 European Union states including the Netherlands and Sweden. "A number of the signatories to this statement submitted a letter last year to express concern about arbitrary detention, widespread surveillance and restrictions, particularly targeting Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang," the statement pointed out. "These deep concerns have been reinforced by additional information now in the public domain." A study by a German researcher said Monday that Chinese authorities were carrying out forced sterilisations of Uighur and other ethnic minority women in an apparent campaign to curb the population. The countries urged China to allow Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, "meaningful access to Xinjiang at the earliest opportunity". The countries urged China to allow Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, "meaningful access to Xinjiang at the earliest opportunity". The signatories urged Bachelet to provide regular information on the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, "in order to safeguard the rights and freedoms which are guaranteed under international law".

China must reconsider Hong Kong security law, 27 countries tell UN

Hong Kong authorities threw a security blanket across the city early on Wednesday, the 23rd anniversary of the former British colony's handover to Chinese rule, hours after new national security legislation took effect in the financial hub. The contentious law will punish crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison, heralding a more authoritarian era for China's freest city. About a dozen demonstrators rallied to protest against the new law, which critics fear will crush wide-ranging freedoms promised to Hong Kong for 50 years when it returned to Beijing under a "one country, two systems" style of governance. Authorities barred an annual march due to be held on Wednesday, citing a ban on gatherings of more than 50 people in a bid to curb coronavirus, but many activists pledged to defy the order and march later in the afternoon. The annual rally is traditionally held to air grievances over everything from sky-high home prices to what many see as Beijing's increasing encroachment on the city's freedoms. "We march every year, every July 1, every October 1 and we will keep on marching," said pro-democracy activist Leung Kwok-hung. On July 1 last year, hundreds of protesters stormed the city's legislature to protest against a now-scrapped bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China, trashing the building in a direct challenge to authorities in Beijing. Those protests evolved into calls for greater democracy, paralysing parts of the city and paving the way for Beijing to directly impose national security law on Hong Kong, a move that has drawn condemnation from some Western governments. Critics fear the legislation will crush wide-ranging freedoms in Hong Kong denied to people in mainland China that are seen as key to its success as a global financial centre. Authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong have repeatedly said the legislation is aimed at a few "troublemakers" and will not affect rights and freedoms, nor investor interests.

Hong Kong marks handover anniversary as national security law takes effect

Under the new legislation, many of the activities carried out by protesters in Hong Kong over the last year become punishable by law.

HK Security Law explained | China unveils details of the law | South Asia

Hong Kong's leader&nbsp;Carrie Lam&nbsp;on Wednesday hailed a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing as the "most important development" since the city was handed back to China.

"The national security law is a turning point for Hong Kong from chaos to being governed well," she told dignitaries at a ceremony marking the 23rd anniversary of the city's return to Chinese rule.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-marks-handover-anniversary-as-national-security-law-takes-effect-309778" hreflang="en">Hong Kong marks handover anniversary as national security law takes effect</a>

Lam was speaking a day after China unveiled the law to semi-autonomous Hong Kong's 7.5 million residents, a historic move decried by many Western governments as an unprecedented assault on the finance hub's liberties and autonomy.

It outlaws subversion, secession, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces to undermine national security with sentences of up to life in prison.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-timeline-of-chinas-excesses-in-hong-kong-leading-up-to-the-national-security-law-309752" hreflang="en">A timeline of China's excesses in Hong Kong leading up to the national security law</a>

The new suite of powers radically restructures the relationship between Beijing and Hong Kong, toppling the legal firewall that has existed between the city's judiciary and the mainland's party-controlled courts.

China will have jurisdiction over "serious" cases and its security agencies will also be able to operate publicly in the city for the first time, unbound by local laws as they carry out their duties.&nbsp;

Twenty-seven countries, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, urged Beijing to "reconsider the imposition" of the legislation, saying in a statement to the UN Human Rights Council that it "undermines" the city's freedoms.

The United States has threatened new countermeasures.&nbsp;But Lam,&nbsp;a pro-Beijing appointee, rejected concerns the law will end Hong Kong's freedoms.&nbsp;

In her speech on Wednesday, she said the law "will not undermine Hong Kong's judicial independence and high degree of autonomy, and won't affect the Hong Kong people's freedoms and rights."

She described criticism of the law by foreign governments as "smearing and vicious attacks" and she thanked China's leaders for keeping faith in her after last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests.&nbsp;

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam on Wednesday hailed a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing as the "most important development" since the city was handed back to China.

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam on Wednesday hailed a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing as the "most important development" since the city was handed back to China. "The national security law is a turning point for Hong Kong from chaos to being governed well," she told dignitaries at a ceremony marking the 23rd anniversary of the city's return to Chinese rule. Also read: Hong Kong marks handover anniversary as national security law takes effect Lam was speaking a day after China unveiled the law to semi-autonomous Hong Kong's 7.5 million residents, a historic move decried by many Western governments as an unprecedented assault on the finance hub's liberties and autonomy. It outlaws subversion, secession, terrorism and colluding with foreign forces to undermine national security with sentences of up to life in prison. Also read: A timeline of China's excesses in Hong Kong leading up to the national security law The new suite of powers radically restructures the relationship between Beijing and Hong Kong, toppling the legal firewall that has existed between the city's judiciary and the mainland's party-controlled courts. China will have jurisdiction over "serious" cases and its security agencies will also be able to operate publicly in the city for the first time, unbound by local laws as they carry out their duties. Twenty-seven countries, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, urged Beijing to "reconsider the imposition" of the legislation, saying in a statement to the UN Human Rights Council that it "undermines" the city's freedoms. The United States has threatened new countermeasures. But Lam, a pro-Beijing appointee, rejected concerns the law will end Hong Kong's freedoms. In her speech on Wednesday, she said the law "will not undermine Hong Kong's judicial independence and high degree of autonomy, and won't affect the Hong Kong people's freedoms and rights." She described criticism of the law by foreign governments as "smearing and vicious attacks" and she thanked China's leaders for keeping faith in her after last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests.

Carrie Lam calls security law 'most important' development for Hong Kong since handover

Taiwan on Tuesday warned its citizens of risk in visiting Hong Kong after China's parliament passed national security legislation for the city while Taiwan's president said she was disappointed about the law.

The security legislation imposed on Hong Kong sets the stage for the most radical changes to the former British colony's way of life since it returned to Chinese rule 23 years ago.

The new law would "severely impact" freedom, democracy and human rights in Hong Kong, Taiwan's cabinet said in a statement, adding that the democratic island would continue to offer help to Hong Kong people.

"The move severely impacts Hong Kong society's freedom, human rights and stability. The government strongly condemns it and reiterates its support for the people of Hong Kong as they strive for democracy and freedom," cabinet spokesman Evian Ting said.

Authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong have repeatedly said the legislation is aimed at a few "troublemakers" in Hong Kong and will not affect rights and freedoms, nor investor interests.

Nevertheless, Ting warned Taiwanese of "possible risks" when visiting Hong Kong in light of the legislation. He did not elaborate.

Months of anti-government, pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong last year won widespread sympathy in democratic and Chinese-claimed Taiwan, which has welcomed people from Hong Kong who have moved to the island and expects more to come.

President Tsai Ing-wen, who in May became the first government leader anywhere to pledge measures to help Hong Kong people who leave due to what they see as tightening Chinese controls, said she was "very disappointed" by China's imposition of the law.

"We hope Hong Kong people continue to adhere to the freedom, democracy and human rights that they cherish," she told reporters.

Taiwan is set to launch on Wednesday a dedicated office to help those thinking of fleeing Hong Kong. July 1 is also the anniversary of day the city returned to Chinese rule from Britain in 1997 with the promise of wide-ranging freedoms under a "one country, two systems" formula.

Tsai said the legislation proved that the formula "was not feasible" and that Taiwan would provide "concrete" humanitarian assistance to migrants from Hong Kong.

Beijing denies stifling Hong Kong's freedoms and has condemned Tsai's offer.

Taiwan on Tuesday warned its citizens of risk in visiting Hong Kong after China's parliament passed national security legislation for the city while Taiwan's president said she was disappointed about the law.

Taiwan on Tuesday warned its citizens of risk in visiting Hong Kong after China's parliament passed national security legislation for the city while Taiwan's president said she was disappointed about the law. The security legislation imposed on Hong Kong sets the stage for the most radical changes to the former British colony's way of life since it returned to Chinese rule 23 years ago. The new law would "severely impact" freedom, democracy and human rights in Hong Kong, Taiwan's cabinet said in a statement, adding that the democratic island would continue to offer help to Hong Kong people. "The move severely impacts Hong Kong society's freedom, human rights and stability. The government strongly condemns it and reiterates its support for the people of Hong Kong as they strive for democracy and freedom," cabinet spokesman Evian Ting said. Authorities in Beijing and Hong Kong have repeatedly said the legislation is aimed at a few "troublemakers" in Hong Kong and will not affect rights and freedoms, nor investor interests. Nevertheless, Ting warned Taiwanese of "possible risks" when visiting Hong Kong in light of the legislation. He did not elaborate. Months of anti-government, pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong last year won widespread sympathy in democratic and Chinese-claimed Taiwan, which has welcomed people from Hong Kong who have moved to the island and expects more to come. President Tsai Ing-wen, who in May became the first government leader anywhere to pledge measures to help Hong Kong people who leave due to what they see as tightening Chinese controls, said she was "very disappointed" by China's imposition of the law. "We hope Hong Kong people continue to adhere to the freedom, democracy and human rights that they cherish," she told reporters. Taiwan is set to launch on Wednesday a dedicated office to help those thinking of fleeing Hong Kong. July 1 is also the anniversary of day the city returned to Chinese rule from Britain in 1997 with the promise of wide-ranging freedoms under a "one country, two systems" formula. Tsai said the legislation proved that the formula "was not feasible" and that Taiwan would provide "concrete" humanitarian assistance to migrants from Hong Kong. Beijing denies stifling Hong Kong's freedoms and has condemned Tsai's offer.

Taiwan warns citizens of risk in Hong Kong visits after China passes law

China on Tuesday said it will take retaliatory measures in response to the United States' decision to start eliminating Hong Kong's special status under US law. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian did not specify which measures Beijing would take.

China on Tuesday said it will take retaliatory measures in response to the United States' decision to start eliminating Hong Kong's special status under US law. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian did not specify which measures Beijing would take. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday barred arms exports to Hong Kong and as China moved ahead with imposing a new national security law for Hong Kong that many fear Beijing and the Chinese Communist Party will use to clamp down on dissent in the former British territory. Pompeo said Hong Kong will soon require licenses for the sale of items to Hong Kong that have both civilian and military uses. Trump administration has warned for weeks that it would take action to end special US trade and commercial preferences Hong Kong had enjoyed since reverting to Chinese rule in 1997. Also read: Hong Kong warns US to stop interfering; calls withdrawing special US status double-edged sword Among those perks was the ability for Hong Kong to import US defence equipment that China is not allowed to. Hong Kong was also able to import dual-use American items without getting licenses required for the same sales to mainland China. Today, the United States is ending exports of @StateDeptPM controlled U.S. origin defense equipment and sensitive @CommerceGov controlled dual-use technologies to Hong Kong. If Beijing now treats Hong Kong as “One Country, One System,” so must we. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) June 29, 2020 × "The United States is forced to take this action to protect US National security," Pompeo said in a statement. "We can no longer distinguish between the export of controlled items to Hong Kong or to mainland China. We cannot risk these items falling into the hands of the People's Liberation Army, whose primary purpose is to uphold the dictatorship of the CCP by any means necessary." "It gives us no pleasure to take this action, which is a direct consequence of Beijing's decision to violate its own commitments under the U.N.-registered Sino-British Joint Declaration," he said. Also read: US and China take their fight over Hong Kong to United Nations "Our actions target the regime, not the Chinese people. But given Beijing now treats Hong Kong as 'One Country, One System,' so must we." The Sino-British Declaration promised that Hong Kong would retain its democracy and democratic rights for at least 50 years after 1997 under what Beijing called the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. Pompeo said the US would continue to review other preferences Hong Kong has enjoyed and "will take additional measures to reflect the reality on the ground in Hong Kong." On Friday, the State Department announced it would bar officials responsible for human rights abuses in Hong Kong from entering the United States.

China to take 'countermeasures' over US ban on military exports to Hong Kong

Hong Kong police on Saturday banned a major demonstration against China's planned national security law for the city which critics fear would smother the financial hub's treasured freedoms, organisers said.

Hong Kong police on Saturday banned a major demonstration against China's planned national security law for the city which critics fear would smother the financial hub's treasured freedoms, organisers said. The Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) said the force had rejected its applications for rallies on July 1, the 23rd anniversary of the former British colony's handover to China. Police cited a risk of violence and said the gatherings and march would "pose a severe threat to public health" due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pro-democracy group CHRF, which was responsible for some of last year's unprecedented million-people demonstrations, said they would appeal the decision. The semi-autonomous city has been convulsed by a year of huge and often violent rallies that began with an eventually aborted criminal extradition bill but morphed into a popular call for democracy and police accountability. In May, Beijing announced a draft national security law -- which will bypass Hong Kong's legislature -- to tackle "terrorism" and "separatism" in a restless city it now regards as a direct national security threat. The law would enforce punishment for subversion and other offences in Hong Kong, but critics see it as potential knock-out blow for freedoms and autonomy enjoyed by the city. US President Donald Trump's administration said Friday it was restricting visas for a number of Chinese officials for infringing on the autonomy of Hong Kong, as Congress seeks tougher sanctions. The Chinese embassy in Washington said "no one has any legal grounds or right to make irresponsible comments on Hong Kong affairs". EU also warned China it would face "very negative consequences" if it pressed ahead with the new law. The law is expected to be voted on during a National People's Congress Standing Committee meeting to be held from Sunday to Tuesday.

Hong Kong police ban major national security law protest

China repudiated a warning from the European Union over a new Hong Kong national security law on Tuesday, with the foreign ministry saying that the matter was a "domestic affair".

China repudiated a warning from the European Union over a new Hong Kong national security law on Tuesday, with the foreign ministry saying that the matter was a "domestic affair". "We oppose any foreign interference in this matter," said Wang Lutong, director-general of European Affairs at China's foreign ministry, adding that China had made its position clear in an EU video summit Monday between President Xi Jinping and top EU officials. Also read: Hong Kong lawyers alarmed at plans for judges in national security trials The European Union on Monday warned China of "very negative consequences" if Beijing goes ahead with a new security law on Hong Kong that the West says will curtail basic rights. Speaking after video calls with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and President Xi Jinping, the EU's chief executive and chairman said the new legislation was a matter of 'grave concern' and could jeopardise the territory's semi-autonomous status and role as a global financial hub. Also read: US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the law did not conform with the Hong Kong Basic Law, in reference to the mini-constitution that was agreed between Britain and China ahead of the 1997 handover. The comments came after China's parliament reacted angrily on Saturday to a resolution by the EU assembly protesting against the security law. (With inputs from agencies)

China slams European Union criticism over Hong Kong law

Senior Hong Kong lawyers expressed alarm on Sunday at plans for the city’s leader to select judges for national security cases, calling it the most serious challenge to the territory’s vaunted judicial independence since the 1997 handover to Chinese rule.

The move was among details of a new national security law for Hong Kong released by the official Xinhua news agency on Saturday - legislation that is expected to be passed soon by the standing committee of China’s parliament, the National People’s Congress.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-unveils-details-of-national-security-law-for-hong-kong-307310">Also read|&nbsp;China unveils details of national security law for Hong Kong</a>

As well as heading a new local national security council supervised by Beijing officials, the city’s Chief Executive, Carrie Lam, will also have the power to appoint judges to hear cases under the law.

The Hong Kong Bar Association’s chairman, Philip Dykes, described as “extraordinary” any move to have Lam allocate judges, saying it cut to the core of the independence of the judiciary that is protected by the Basic Law, the city’s mini-constitution.

“This is the biggest shift since the handover,” Dykes told Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drag-china-to-un-court-over-hong-kong-security-law-eu-parliament-307287">Also read|&nbsp;Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliament</a>

“You can’t be slightly independent any more than you can be slightly pregnant. You’re either independent or you’re not.”

With Lam heading the council, “you’re picking a judge for a contest in which you have an interest”.

In response to Reuters questions addressed to Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma on the new legislation, the judiciary said in an email that it “would not comment”.

Hong Kong and Chinese officials say the law must be imposed urgently on the former British colony after sometimes-violent protests over the past year exposed the need to tackle separatism, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

The law is stoking fears among foreign governments as well as Hong Kong’s democracy activists, who were already concerned that Beijing is eroding extensive autonomy promised when Britain handed it back under a “one country, two systems” formula.

The city’s common law-based legal system is widely seen as the bedrock of that formula, underpinning its status as a global financial hub.

Speaking privately, other senior lawyers expressed deep concern, saying it appeared to confirm their fears that Beijing wanted to curb the “separation of powers” that made Hong Kong judges an important check on the government. Some admit to being increasingly nervous about speaking out due to Beijing’s growing squeeze.

A Reuters Special Report in April revealed that some of the city’s most senior judges privately feared the city’s rule of law was under assault from Beijing.

While pro-Beijing figures have demanded special courts and called for foreign judges - a long-standing tradition in Hong Kong - to be barred from national security cases, the new plan had not surfaced locally.

“It is an act to import political elements into the judicial system, which is supposed to be impartial,” said Angeline Chan, a solicitor and convenor of the Progressive Lawyers Group.

The allocation and rostering of judges is currently handled by senior judges based on legal experience.

“It raises a lot of questions ... God knows how they will be selected,” said Dykes, urging the full proposed law to be released as soon as possible.

Lam said in a statement late on Saturday that the central government had repeatedly emphasised the law “will not affect the capitalist system in Hong Kong and (its) legal system”.

Senior Hong Kong lawyers expressed alarm on Sunday at plans for the city’s leader to select judges for national security cases, calling it the most serious challenge to the territory’s vaunted judicial independence since the 1997 handover to Chinese rule.

Senior Hong Kong lawyers expressed alarm on Sunday at plans for the city’s leader to select judges for national security cases, calling it the most serious challenge to the territory’s vaunted judicial independence since the 1997 handover to Chinese rule. The move was among details of a new national security law for Hong Kong released by the official Xinhua news agency on Saturday - legislation that is expected to be passed soon by the standing committee of China’s parliament, the National People’s Congress. Also read| China unveils details of national security law for Hong Kong As well as heading a new local national security council supervised by Beijing officials, the city’s Chief Executive, Carrie Lam, will also have the power to appoint judges to hear cases under the law. The Hong Kong Bar Association’s chairman, Philip Dykes, described as “extraordinary” any move to have Lam allocate judges, saying it cut to the core of the independence of the judiciary that is protected by the Basic Law, the city’s mini-constitution. “This is the biggest shift since the handover,” Dykes told Reuters. Also read| Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliament “You can’t be slightly independent any more than you can be slightly pregnant. You’re either independent or you’re not.” With Lam heading the council, “you’re picking a judge for a contest in which you have an interest”. In response to Reuters questions addressed to Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma on the new legislation, the judiciary said in an email that it “would not comment”. Hong Kong and Chinese officials say the law must be imposed urgently on the former British colony after sometimes-violent protests over the past year exposed the need to tackle separatism, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. The law is stoking fears among foreign governments as well as Hong Kong’s democracy activists, who were already concerned that Beijing is eroding extensive autonomy promised when Britain handed it back under a “one country, two systems” formula. The city’s common law-based legal system is widely seen as the bedrock of that formula, underpinning its status as a global financial hub. Speaking privately, other senior lawyers expressed deep concern, saying it appeared to confirm their fears that Beijing wanted to curb the “separation of powers” that made Hong Kong judges an important check on the government. Some admit to being increasingly nervous about speaking out due to Beijing’s growing squeeze. A Reuters Special Report in April revealed that some of the city’s most senior judges privately feared the city’s rule of law was under assault from Beijing. While pro-Beijing figures have demanded special courts and called for foreign judges - a long-standing tradition in Hong Kong - to be barred from national security cases, the new plan had not surfaced locally. “It is an act to import political elements into the judicial system, which is supposed to be impartial,” said Angeline Chan, a solicitor and convenor of the Progressive Lawyers Group. The allocation and rostering of judges is currently handled by senior judges based on legal experience. “It raises a lot of questions ... God knows how they will be selected,” said Dykes, urging the full proposed law to be released as soon as possible. Lam said in a statement late on Saturday that the central government had repeatedly emphasised the law “will not affect the capitalist system in Hong Kong and (its) legal system”.

Hong Kong lawyers alarmed at plans for judges in national security trials

Carrie lam,&nbsp;the chief executive of Hong Kong went from unassuming bureaucrat to the face of Beijing’s authoritarian influence in Hong Kong and sparked a mass uprising along the way.

She is called the person who sold her city to China. A career bureaucrat, who takes orders from Beijing.

Her tenure has seen two violent protests and, the freedom of her people is being taken away. China is drafting the new national security law, she must be thinking — her political aspirations have truly led to the loss of freedom.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-carrie-lam-a-leader-who-sold-hong-kong-307191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Not only for her people, even for herself when the British left Hong Kong in 1997.No one saw the political ambitions of a local civil servant Carrie lam stopped dressing in Margaret Thatcher-like suits and — began to don the traditional Chinese cheongsams. The shift in her allegiance was complete.

Today — she is the chief executive of Hong Kong but the history will judge her as the person who sold Hong Kong to China.

She has choked her citizens with tear gas and — bruised them with rubber bullets.

Beijing admires Carrie Lam for this ability a bureaucrat by training — she finds it easier to take instructions from her masters in China Xi Jinping became the president of China in 2013.

One year later, the umbrella revolution broke out in Hong Kong. China had proposed reforms to the Hong Kong electoral system. It wanted a bigger say in selecting the chief executive of Hong Kong.

Carrie lam caught Beijing’s attention in 2017 — she was chosen to be the chief executive of Hong Kong. She became the first woman to ever hold the position. She was sworn in by Xi Jinping himself.

Once she took office — she did Beijing’s bidding suppressing pro-democracy activists with an unprecedented force in 2018 — she banned the pro-independence Hong Kong national party. This is the turning point in Carrie Lam’s story. Pro-democracy activists began to condemn her, calling her china’s puppet. In mid-2019 — the fears came true, Carrie lam’s government introduced the extradition bill.

This was China’s plan to instil fear in pro-democracy activists.&nbsp;

Protests followed the Hong Kong police fired 150 rounds of tear gas. In an interview — Carrie Lam broke down when asked if she had betrayed Hong Kong.

The protestors demanded Carrie Lam’s resignation. She soon withdrew the bill and apologized to Hong Kong’s residents. In December — Carrie Lam faced an impeachment motion for mishandling the extradition bill and the protests. The majority of pro-china legislators bailed her out.

But — Beijing was not happy with the way she cowered due to public pressure. Now — China has decided to take matters into its own hands with the national security law. A law that will make protests illegal and curb free speech.

Still, Carrie Lam calls her people 'the enemies'. She is speaking for China, not Hong Kong. She has put 9,000 protesters in jail since last year. Her transformation is complete. The same Carrie Lam was a pro-democracy activist during her student days.

Carrie lam, the chief executive of Hong Kong went from unassuming bureaucrat to the face of Beijing’s authoritarian influence in Hong Kong and sparked a mass uprising along the way.

Carrie lam, the chief executive of Hong Kong went from unassuming bureaucrat to the face of Beijing’s authoritarian influence in Hong Kong and sparked a mass uprising along the way. She is called the person who sold her city to China. A career bureaucrat, who takes orders from Beijing. Her tenure has seen two violent protests and, the freedom of her people is being taken away. China is drafting the new national security law, she must be thinking — her political aspirations have truly led to the loss of freedom. Not only for her people, even for herself when the British left Hong Kong in 1997.No one saw the political ambitions of a local civil servant Carrie lam stopped dressing in Margaret Thatcher-like suits and — began to don the traditional Chinese cheongsams. The shift in her allegiance was complete. Today — she is the chief executive of Hong Kong but the history will judge her as the person who sold Hong Kong to China. She has choked her citizens with tear gas and — bruised them with rubber bullets. Beijing admires Carrie Lam for this ability a bureaucrat by training — she finds it easier to take instructions from her masters in China Xi Jinping became the president of China in 2013. One year later, the umbrella revolution broke out in Hong Kong. China had proposed reforms to the Hong Kong electoral system. It wanted a bigger say in selecting the chief executive of Hong Kong. Carrie lam caught Beijing’s attention in 2017 — she was chosen to be the chief executive of Hong Kong. She became the first woman to ever hold the position. She was sworn in by Xi Jinping himself. Once she took office — she did Beijing’s bidding suppressing pro-democracy activists with an unprecedented force in 2018 — she banned the pro-independence Hong Kong national party. This is the turning point in Carrie Lam’s story. Pro-democracy activists began to condemn her, calling her china’s puppet. In mid-2019 — the fears came true, Carrie lam’s government introduced the extradition bill. This was China’s plan to instil fear in pro-democracy activists. Protests followed the Hong Kong police fired 150 rounds of tear gas. In an interview — Carrie Lam broke down when asked if she had betrayed Hong Kong. The protestors demanded Carrie Lam’s resignation. She soon withdrew the bill and apologized to Hong Kong’s residents. In December — Carrie Lam faced an impeachment motion for mishandling the extradition bill and the protests. The majority of pro-china legislators bailed her out. But — Beijing was not happy with the way she cowered due to public pressure. Now — China has decided to take matters into its own hands with the national security law. A law that will make protests illegal and curb free speech. Still, Carrie Lam calls her people 'the enemies'. She is speaking for China, not Hong Kong. She has put 9,000 protesters in jail since last year. Her transformation is complete. The same Carrie Lam was a pro-democracy activist during her student days.

China's puppet in Hong Kong Carrie Lam: A leader who killed her own city

The&nbsp;European Parliament has voted in favour of taking&nbsp;China to the International Court of Justice in The Hague if China&nbsp;imposes the controversial new security law in Hong Kong.

The security experts, locals of Hong Kong and the European Union government believe the new security bill being imposed by China in Hong Kong&nbsp;will jeopardise Hong Kong' semi-autonomous status and its role as a global financial hub.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treatment-of-hong-kong-depends-on-how-beijing-treats-it-says-pompeo-307214">Also read:&nbsp;US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo</a>

In a resolution, the European Parliament voted 565 in favour to 34 against, with 62 abstentions to protest the security law.

Criticisng the security law, Europe, Australia and the United States say it poses a threat to the&nbsp;"one country, two systems" principle that governs Hong Kong's autonomy.

The European Parliament "calls on the EU and its member states to consider, in the event the new security law is applied, filing a case before the International Court of Justice," the resolution said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-puppet-in-hong-kong-carrie-lam-a-leader-who-killed-her-own-city-307188">Also read:&nbsp;China's puppet in Hong Kong Carrie Lam: A leader who killed her own city</a>

China has expressed displeasure regarding EU's stand and has alleged the EU of distorting facts.&nbsp;You Wenze, spokesman for the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National People`s Congress, China`s parliament expressed his opposition to EU's decision which he said seriously distorted the facts and amounted to open interference in Hong Kong affairs.

The new national security legislation has been under review by&nbsp;Chinese parliament's top decision-making body since Thursday. However, local media has reported that hours-long meetings have had no mention of Hong Kong yet.

The EU is therefore calling for a bloc from European countries to help steer policies and steer economic sanctions.&nbsp;The parliament "believes that the EU should use its economic leverage to challenge China's crackdown on human rights by economic means," the resolution said.

The leaders of the EU institutions and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang are set to hold a summit by video on Monday.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The European Parliament has voted in favour of taking China to the International Court of Justice in The Hague if China imposes the controversial new security law in Hong Kong.

The European Parliament has voted in favour of taking China to the International Court of Justice in The Hague if China imposes the controversial new security law in Hong Kong. The security experts, locals of Hong Kong and the European Union government believe the new security bill being imposed by China in Hong Kong will jeopardise Hong Kong' semi-autonomous status and its role as a global financial hub. Also read: US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo In a resolution, the European Parliament voted 565 in favour to 34 against, with 62 abstentions to protest the security law. Criticisng the security law, Europe, Australia and the United States say it poses a threat to the "one country, two systems" principle that governs Hong Kong's autonomy. The European Parliament "calls on the EU and its member states to consider, in the event the new security law is applied, filing a case before the International Court of Justice," the resolution said. Also read: China's puppet in Hong Kong Carrie Lam: A leader who killed her own city China has expressed displeasure regarding EU's stand and has alleged the EU of distorting facts. You Wenze, spokesman for the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National People`s Congress, China`s parliament expressed his opposition to EU's decision which he said seriously distorted the facts and amounted to open interference in Hong Kong affairs. The new national security legislation has been under review by Chinese parliament's top decision-making body since Thursday. However, local media has reported that hours-long meetings have had no mention of Hong Kong yet. The EU is therefore calling for a bloc from European countries to help steer policies and steer economic sanctions. The parliament "believes that the EU should use its economic leverage to challenge China's crackdown on human rights by economic means," the resolution said. The leaders of the EU institutions and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang are set to hold a summit by video on Monday. (With inputs from Reuters)

Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliament

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday urged opponents of Beijing's plan to impose national security legislation in the financial hub to stop "smearing" the effort, saying those who did were "the enemy of the people".

Her comments come on the first anniversary of what organisers said was a 'two million'&nbsp;protest in Hong Kong history.

Beijing last month announced a plan to introduce legislation in Hong Kong to tackle secession, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference and which could see Chinese security agencies set up bases in the city.

Critics see the law as the most serious threat to a "one country, two systems" formula, agreed when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997, aimed at ensuring its freedoms and role as a global financial centre.

''I urge those who have been resorting to demonising and stigmatising [the law] to stop. When they do this, they are pitching themselves against Hong Kong residents, who want stability again – they want a safe environment, work and life,''&nbsp;she said on Tuesday ahead of her weekly Executive Council meeting.

''The common goal must be for Hong Kong to resume stability. It has been said the law will only to target a handful of people who are acting in a way that undermines national security,''&nbsp;she added. ''We are talking about protecting the vast majority of Hong Kong people and their legitimate rights and interests.''

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Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday urged opponents of Beijing's plan to impose national security legislation in the financial hub to stop "smearing" the effort, saying those who did were "the enemy of the people".

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday urged opponents of Beijing's plan to impose national security legislation in the financial hub to stop "smearing" the effort, saying those who did were "the enemy of the people". Her comments come on the first anniversary of what organisers said was a 'two million' protest in Hong Kong history. Beijing last month announced a plan to introduce legislation in Hong Kong to tackle secession, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference and which could see Chinese security agencies set up bases in the city. Critics see the law as the most serious threat to a "one country, two systems" formula, agreed when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997, aimed at ensuring its freedoms and role as a global financial centre. ''I urge those who have been resorting to demonising and stigmatising [the law] to stop. When they do this, they are pitching themselves against Hong Kong residents, who want stability again – they want a safe environment, work and life,'' she said on Tuesday ahead of her weekly Executive Council meeting. ''The common goal must be for Hong Kong to resume stability. It has been said the law will only to target a handful of people who are acting in a way that undermines national security,'' she added. ''We are talking about protecting the vast majority of Hong Kong people and their legitimate rights and interests.''

Opponents of security law are 'enemy of the people', says Hong Kong chief Carrie Lam

In a major show of support to pro-democracy voices in Hong Kong, UK PM Boris Johnson has announced his intension to overhold British immigration policy to fast track citizenship for Hong Kong residents. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: UK to China, Roll back security law or face visa rules

The United Kingdom is prepared to change its immigration rules if China imposes a national security law on Hong Kong

PM Boris Johnson proposes new visa rules for HK

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam accused foreign governments on Tuesday of "double standards" in their reaction to Beijing's plans to impose national security laws on the city, pointing to anti-police brutality protests in the United States.

Semi-autonomous&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has been rocked by months of huge and often violent pro-democracy protests over the past year, which riot police have stamped out with more than 9,000 arrests.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-rioters-have-infiltrated-american-states-china-hits-out-at-us-over-george-floyd-protests-302318">'Hong Kong rioters have infiltrated American states': China hits out at US over George Floyd protests</a>

Washington has been critical of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's response to the demonstrations with US President Donald Trump last week vowing to end the city's special trading status after Beijing announced plans to impose a sweeping national security law on the business hub.

In her first public appearance after Washington said it will remove Hong Kong's preferential treatment in US&nbsp;law in response to Beijing's plans, Lam warned countries threatening actions against the city that they may hurt their own interests.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-warns-us-to-stop-interfering-calls-withdrawing-special-us-status-double-edged-sword-301695">Hong Kong warns US to stop interfering; calls withdrawing special US status double-edged sword</a>

"They are very concerned about their own national security, but on our national security...they look through tinted glasses," Lam told a weekly news conference.

"In the US., we see how the riots were being handled by the local governments, compared to the stance they adopted when almost the same riots happened in Hong Kong last year."

"We have seen most clearly in recent weeks the double standards that are around," Lam, who was selected as city leader by a pro-Beijing committee, told reporters.

"You know there are riots in the United States and we see how local governments reacted. And then in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, when we had similar riots, we saw what position they adopted then."

Both Chinese and&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;officials have seized on the unrest gripping the US in their propaganda drive to justify their own crackdown on pro-democracy protests and the national security law plans.

Having lost patience with Hong Kong after large-scale and often-violent pro-democracy protests in the Chinese-ruled city last year, Beijing authorities last month advanced plans to introduce laws tackling secession, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference.

The laws could also see Chinese intelligence agencies set up shop in the global financial hub.

U.S. President Donald Trump, saying Hong Kong was no longer sufficiently autonomous from Beijing as promised at the time of the 1997 handover of the territory by Britain, said Hong Kong will no longer be treated differently from China in U.S. law.

Hong Kong and Beijing authorities insist rights and freedoms will be preserved, remarks echoed by Lam on Tuesday. She said "public concerns" about the legislation were understandable as a draft was yet to be finalised.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam accused foreign governments on Tuesday of "double standards" in their reaction to Beijing's plans to impose national security laws on the city, pointing to anti-police brutality protests in the United States.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam accused foreign governments on Tuesday of "double standards" in their reaction to Beijing's plans to impose national security laws on the city, pointing to anti-police brutality protests in the United States. Semi-autonomous Hong Kong has been rocked by months of huge and often violent pro-democracy protests over the past year, which riot police have stamped out with more than 9,000 arrests. Also read: 'Hong Kong rioters have infiltrated American states': China hits out at US over George Floyd protests Washington has been critical of Hong Kong's response to the demonstrations with US President Donald Trump last week vowing to end the city's special trading status after Beijing announced plans to impose a sweeping national security law on the business hub. In her first public appearance after Washington said it will remove Hong Kong's preferential treatment in US law in response to Beijing's plans, Lam warned countries threatening actions against the city that they may hurt their own interests. Also read: Hong Kong warns US to stop interfering; calls withdrawing special US status double-edged sword "They are very concerned about their own national security, but on our national security...they look through tinted glasses," Lam told a weekly news conference. "In the US., we see how the riots were being handled by the local governments, compared to the stance they adopted when almost the same riots happened in Hong Kong last year." "We have seen most clearly in recent weeks the double standards that are around," Lam, who was selected as city leader by a pro-Beijing committee, told reporters. "You know there are riots in the United States and we see how local governments reacted. And then in Hong Kong, when we had similar riots, we saw what position they adopted then." Both Chinese and Hong Kong officials have seized on the unrest gripping the US in their propaganda drive to justify their own crackdown on pro-democracy protests and the national security law plans. Having lost patience with Hong Kong after large-scale and often-violent pro-democracy protests in the Chinese-ruled city last year, Beijing authorities last month advanced plans to introduce laws tackling secession, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference. The laws could also see Chinese intelligence agencies set up shop in the global financial hub. U.S. President Donald Trump, saying Hong Kong was no longer sufficiently autonomous from Beijing as promised at the time of the 1997 handover of the territory by Britain, said Hong Kong will no longer be treated differently from China in U.S. law. Hong Kong and Beijing authorities insist rights and freedoms will be preserved, remarks echoed by Lam on Tuesday. She said "public concerns" about the legislation were understandable as a draft was yet to be finalised.

Hong Kong leader accuses US of 'double standards' over protests

North Korea on Saturday said that it supports China's decision to impose new national security laws in Hong Kong, calling it a "legitimate step" to safeguard the state security.

"Since Hong Kong issue is an issue pertaining thoroughly to the internal affairs of China, any country or force has no rights to say this or that about the issue," North Korea's KCNA state news agency cited a representative of North Korea’s foreign ministry as saying.

"We categorically oppose and reject the outside interference detrimental to the security and the social and economic development of Hong Kong."

North Korea's comments come after Beijing this week imposed a new national security law on Hong Kong that some say could restrict freedoms in the former British colony, and as US President Donald Trump intensified his confrontation with China by announcing a slew of measures to end the territory's special trade status with the US.

North Korea has previously supported Beijing over the protests in Hong Kong and over China's "one country and two systems" policy. 
&nbsp;

North Korea on Saturday said that it supports China's decision to impose new national security laws in Hong Kong, calling it a "legitimate step" to safeguard the state security.

North Korea on Saturday said that it supports China's decision to impose new national security laws in Hong Kong, calling it a "legitimate step" to safeguard the state security. "Since Hong Kong issue is an issue pertaining thoroughly to the internal affairs of China, any country or force has no rights to say this or that about the issue," North Korea's KCNA state news agency cited a representative of North Korea’s foreign ministry as saying. "We categorically oppose and reject the outside interference detrimental to the security and the social and economic development of Hong Kong." North Korea's comments come after Beijing this week imposed a new national security law on Hong Kong that some say could restrict freedoms in the former British colony, and as US President Donald Trump intensified his confrontation with China by announcing a slew of measures to end the territory's special trade status with the US. North Korea has previously supported Beijing over the protests in Hong Kong and over China's "one country and two systems" policy.

North Korea says it supports China's decision to impose new security law in Hong Kong

UK is mulling to opening citizenship path for over 300,000 Hong Kong residents if China pursues the repressive security laws on the former British colony, according to&nbsp;the foreign secretary,&nbsp;Dominic Raab.

The offer would apply only to Hong Kongers who possess a document known as the British National Overseas (BNO) passport, which was granted to residents who registered for it prior to Britain handing Hong Kong back to China in 1997.

More than 314,000 BNO holders reside in the semi-autonomous territory,&nbsp;according to the Home Office. Their status currently entitles them to seek consular assistance from the UK, but is not equivalent to British citizenship.

The move, which appears in outline to stop short of giving the&nbsp;BN(O)s&nbsp;a right of abode, is a response to growing Conservative backbench pressure on the Foreign Office to do more to help Hong Kong citizens fearful that China is about to extinguish their independence and political freedoms.

Raab said he would extend the BN(O) holders’ current right to visit for six months without a visa to an extendable 12 months, leading to a pathway for future citizenship. The proposal has been squared with the home secretary, Priti Patel, and the prime minister’s office, but details still need fleshing out.

Raab stressed the offer was dependent on the precise next steps&nbsp;China&nbsp;seeks to take to impose its security laws.

''In relation to BNO passport holders, currently they only have the right to come to the UK for six months,''&nbsp;he said.

''If China continues down this path and implements this national security legislation, we will change that status. And we will remove that six-month limit and allow those BNO passport holders to come to the UK and to apply to work and study for extendable periods of 12 months and that will itself provide a pathway to future citizenship.”

UK is mulling to opening citizenship path for over 300,000 Hong Kong residents if China pursues the repressive security laws on the former British colony, according to the foreign secretary, Dominic Raab.

UK is mulling to opening citizenship path for over 300,000 Hong Kong residents if China pursues the repressive security laws on the former British colony, according to the foreign secretary, Dominic Raab. The offer would apply only to Hong Kongers who possess a document known as the British National Overseas (BNO) passport, which was granted to residents who registered for it prior to Britain handing Hong Kong back to China in 1997. More than 314,000 BNO holders reside in the semi-autonomous territory, according to the Home Office. Their status currently entitles them to seek consular assistance from the UK, but is not equivalent to British citizenship. The move, which appears in outline to stop short of giving the BN(O)s a right of abode, is a response to growing Conservative backbench pressure on the Foreign Office to do more to help Hong Kong citizens fearful that China is about to extinguish their independence and political freedoms. Raab said he would extend the BN(O) holders’ current right to visit for six months without a visa to an extendable 12 months, leading to a pathway for future citizenship. The proposal has been squared with the home secretary, Priti Patel, and the prime minister’s office, but details still need fleshing out. Raab stressed the offer was dependent on the precise next steps China seeks to take to impose its security laws. ''In relation to BNO passport holders, currently they only have the right to come to the UK for six months,'' he said. ''If China continues down this path and implements this national security legislation, we will change that status. And we will remove that six-month limit and allow those BNO passport holders to come to the UK and to apply to work and study for extendable periods of 12 months and that will itself provide a pathway to future citizenship.”

UK to extend citizenship to Hong Kong residents if China pursues security law

Lawmakers in China on May 28 passed legislation that will extend the country's national security law to Hong Kong, an expected move that has prompted large demonstrations in the city and a warning from Washington.

US may cut special trade ties with HK

China approves Hong Kong Security Bill: Joshua Wong speaks to WION

Security Law will change Hong Kong's legal system

Hong Kong Security Law approved: 28,000 Chinese delegates vote in favour

Hong Kong streets crowded with protesters; police takes control by throwing pepper bombs

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said proposed national security laws would not trample on the city's rights and freedoms, amid widespread concerns. A raft of local and Beijing officials also tried to provide reassurance that the law will not curtail the rights of the city's residents.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday said proposed national security laws would not trample on the city's rights and freedoms, amid widespread concerns. A raft of local and Beijing officials also tried to provide reassurance that the law will not curtail the rights of the city's residents. Lam's comments came after Beijing unveiled plans last week for national security legislation for Hong Kong that aim to tackle secession, subversion and terrorist activities and could see Chinese intelligence agencies set up bases in the city. Lam said those concerned need to wait for the details of the proposed legislation.

Hong Kong leader says security laws will not affect Hong Kong's rights and freedoms

Hong Kong's security and police chiefs said "terrorism" was growing in the city, as government departments rallied on Monday behind Beijing's plans to introduce national security laws after thousands took to the streets to protest against the move.

The security legislation, which could see Chinese intelligence agencies set up bases in Hong Kong and aims to tackle secession, subversion and terrorist activities, has sent shockwaves through the business and diplomatic communities.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-take-to-streets-in-hong-kong-to-oppose-chinas-controversial-law-300786">Thousands take to streets in Hong Kong to oppose China's controversial law</a>

"Terrorism is growing in the city and activities which harm national security, such as 'Hong Kong independence', become more rampant," secretary for security John Lee said in a statement.

"In just a few months, Hong Kong has changed from one of the safest cities in the world to a city shrouded in the shadow of violence," he said, adding national security laws were needed to safeguard the city's prosperity and stability.

Police said they arrested more than 180 people on sunday, when authorities fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse anti-government protesters as unrest returned to the chinese-ruled city after months of relative calm.

Police commissioner chris tang said there have been 14 cases involving explosives "commonly used in terrorist attacks overseas" and five seizures of firearms and ammunition since protests began in june last year.

The draft legislation "will help combat the force of 'Hong Kong independence' and restore social order. police fully support it," Tang said.

In a return of the unrest that roiled hong kong last year, crowds thronged the streets of the city on Sunday in defiance of curbs imposed to contain the coronavirus, with chants of "Hong Kong independence, the only way out," echoing through the streets. 
calls for independence are anathema to Beijing, which considers Hong Kong an inalienable part of the country.

The proposed new national security framework stresses Beijing’s intent "to prevent, stop and punish" such acts.

Protests are expected to resume on Wednesday, when the city's legislature is expected to give a second reading of a bill that would criminalise abuse of china's national anthem.

Agencies issuing statements in support of the legislation included the commissioner of correctional services, Hong Kong customs, the fire department and the government flying service. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong's security and police chiefs said "terrorism" was growing in the city, as government departments rallied on Monday behind Beijing's plans to introduce national security laws after thousands took to the streets to protest against the move.

Hong Kong's security and police chiefs said "terrorism" was growing in the city, as government departments rallied on Monday behind Beijing's plans to introduce national security laws after thousands took to the streets to protest against the move. The security legislation, which could see Chinese intelligence agencies set up bases in Hong Kong and aims to tackle secession, subversion and terrorist activities, has sent shockwaves through the business and diplomatic communities. Also see: Thousands take to streets in Hong Kong to oppose China's controversial law "Terrorism is growing in the city and activities which harm national security, such as 'Hong Kong independence', become more rampant," secretary for security John Lee said in a statement. "In just a few months, Hong Kong has changed from one of the safest cities in the world to a city shrouded in the shadow of violence," he said, adding national security laws were needed to safeguard the city's prosperity and stability. Police said they arrested more than 180 people on sunday, when authorities fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse anti-government protesters as unrest returned to the chinese-ruled city after months of relative calm. Police commissioner chris tang said there have been 14 cases involving explosives "commonly used in terrorist attacks overseas" and five seizures of firearms and ammunition since protests began in june last year. The draft legislation "will help combat the force of 'Hong Kong independence' and restore social order. police fully support it," Tang said. In a return of the unrest that roiled hong kong last year, crowds thronged the streets of the city on Sunday in defiance of curbs imposed to contain the coronavirus, with chants of "Hong Kong independence, the only way out," echoing through the streets. calls for independence are anathema to Beijing, which considers Hong Kong an inalienable part of the country. The proposed new national security framework stresses Beijing’s intent "to prevent, stop and punish" such acts. Protests are expected to resume on Wednesday, when the city's legislature is expected to give a second reading of a bill that would criminalise abuse of china's national anthem. Agencies issuing statements in support of the legislation included the commissioner of correctional services, Hong Kong customs, the fire department and the government flying service.

Hong Kong security chief warn of growing 'terrorism' as national laws loom

China's foreign ministry said that "if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-foreign-minister-says-us-china-nearing-brink-of-new-cold-war-300709">US</a> insists on hurting China's interests, China will have to take every necessary measure to counter and oppose this."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-will-provide-necessary-assistance-to-protesters-in-hong-kong-300913">Also Read:&nbsp;Taiwan will provide 'necessary assistance' to protesters in Hong Kong</a>

China's statement comes after the US said it might revoke Hong Kong's special trading privileges if China enacts the new security law.

China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that "what laws, how, and when Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) should legislate are entirely within the scope of China's sovereignty."

The security law bans treason, subversion, and sedition amid renewed violence in Hong Kong as pro-democracy protesters clashed with security officials after China announced the tough new law during the legislature meeting on Friday.

Protesters clashed with police in a rerun of violence last year as the city witnessed large scale anti-government government demonstrations which often took a violent turn.

On Sunday, police arrested 180 people while firing tear gas and pepper spray to try and disperse the crowd. The demonstrations occurred despite authorities issuing coronavirus-linked law banning public gatherings of more than eight people.

Hong Kong's security minister John Lee said: "Terrorism is growing in the city and activities which harm national security, such as Hong Kong independence."

Amid the confusion over the new proposed law, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi had earlier said that the new law must be imposed "without the slightest delay".

China's foreign ministry said that "if the US insists on hurting China's interests, China will have to take every necessary measure to counter and oppose this." Also Read: Taiwan will provide 'necessary assistance' to protesters in Hong Kong China's statement comes after the US said it might revoke Hong Kong's special trading privileges if China enacts the new security law.

China's foreign ministry said that "if the US insists on hurting China's interests, China will have to take every necessary measure to counter and oppose this." Also Read: Taiwan will provide 'necessary assistance' to protesters in Hong Kong China's statement comes after the US said it might revoke Hong Kong's special trading privileges if China enacts the new security law. China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that "what laws, how, and when Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) should legislate are entirely within the scope of China's sovereignty." The security law bans treason, subversion, and sedition amid renewed violence in Hong Kong as pro-democracy protesters clashed with security officials after China announced the tough new law during the legislature meeting on Friday. Protesters clashed with police in a rerun of violence last year as the city witnessed large scale anti-government government demonstrations which often took a violent turn. On Sunday, police arrested 180 people while firing tear gas and pepper spray to try and disperse the crowd. The demonstrations occurred despite authorities issuing coronavirus-linked law banning public gatherings of more than eight people. Hong Kong's security minister John Lee said: "Terrorism is growing in the city and activities which harm national security, such as Hong Kong independence." Amid the confusion over the new proposed law, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi had earlier said that the new law must be imposed "without the slightest delay".

If US insists on hurting us, will have to take necessary measures: China

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