Relatives of some of the 12 Hong Kong activists arrested by Chinese authorities at sea more than six weeks ago as they tried to flee by boat to Taiwan have accused on Thursday (October 8) the Hong Kong government of lying over the circumstances surrounding their capture.

Hong Kong: Relatives accuse government of lying over surveillance of detainees

A valuable stolen Chinese calligraphy scroll written by Chairman Mao Zedong has been found cut in half in Hong Kong, police said on Wednesday (October 7), after it was stolen from an art collector's home in September.

Valuable stolen Mao Zedong scroll found cut in half in Hong Kong

Against the vivid backdrop of a giant aquarium filled with sharks, manta rays and other aquatic life, a yoga group on Thursday (October 8) performed side planks, chair poses and lunges, their arms outstretched to the ceiling.

Aquarium yoga among Hong Kong Ocean Park's staycation palette

Germany has motivated dozens of countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan, urging China to respect the rights of its minority Muslim Uighurs, and expressing their concern about the political situation in Hong Kong. Watch report.

39 nations urge China to respect Uighurs

There are signs that Canada has begun opening doors for pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong as refugees. Canada has already granted refuge to a couple, both in their early 30s on these grounds. Pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have been going on on large scale since 2019. The protests started when Hong Kong's leadership tried to enact legislation that paved way for extradition to China.

On September 1, the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada told the Hong Kong couple that they had been given asylum as they were determined to be "Convention refugees".

As per Canadian law, a convention refugee is someone who can't return to their home country due to a "well founded fear of persecution" on grounds of "race, religion, political opinion".

Media reports said that the couple was involved in the protests. The man has been associated with a prominent political party in Hong Kong and both of them were part of street protests opposing Hong Kong authorities' efforts to push the legislation.

After the asylum was granted, the man was quoted as saying that he felt safe and no more had to hide.

Hong Kong is a former British Colony. Though it is now controlled by China, the semi-autonomous nature of the city affords it to have regulations that are more liberal than those in the mainland.

There are signs that Canada has begun opening doors for pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong as refugees. Canada has already granted refuge to a couple, both in their early 30s on these grounds.

There are signs that Canada has begun opening doors for pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong as refugees. Canada has already granted refuge to a couple, both in their early 30s on these grounds. Pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have been going on on large scale since 2019. The protests started when Hong Kong's leadership tried to enact legislation that paved way for extradition to China. On September 1, the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada told the Hong Kong couple that they had been given asylum as they were determined to be "Convention refugees". As per Canadian law, a convention refugee is someone who can't return to their home country due to a "well founded fear of persecution" on grounds of "race, religion, political opinion". Media reports said that the couple was involved in the protests. The man has been associated with a prominent political party in Hong Kong and both of them were part of street protests opposing Hong Kong authorities' efforts to push the legislation. After the asylum was granted, the man was quoted as saying that he felt safe and no more had to hide. Hong Kong is a former British Colony. Though it is now controlled by China, the semi-autonomous nature of the city affords it to have regulations that are more liberal than those in the mainland.

Canada accepts Hong Kong pro-democracy activists as refugees

A poetry scroll by&nbsp;Mao Zedong that was stolen in Hong Kong has now been recovered&nbsp;but in pieces, as reported by the Hong Kong police.

The local police reported that the calligraphy scroll was recovered along with two bronze coins.

"Someone claimed that (the scroll) was too difficult to display because it was too long so it was cut in half," Senior Superintendent Tony Ho told reporters.

The scroll is&nbsp;estimated to be worth at least US$300 million.&nbsp;It was one of the most valuable items that was stolen from Fu Chunxiao's home, a Chinese collector, last month.

This scroll was stolen by a gang of three who also robbed more valuables from the collector's apartment. The stolen items were worth&nbsp;HK$5 billion ($645 million) approximately.

The robbery has been identified as one of the most expensive heists, as the stoilen items contained expensive scrolls, antique stamps and revolutionary items from China and Hong Kong.

As of now, one person has been arrested on&nbsp;suspicion of handling stolen goods, another for burglary and the third for assisting a criminal.

The investigation is still underway.

A poetry scroll by Mao Zedong that was stolen in Hong Kong has now been recovered but in pieces, as reported by the Hong Kong police. The local police reported that the calligraphy scroll was recovered along with two bronze coins.

A poetry scroll by Mao Zedong that was stolen in Hong Kong has now been recovered but in pieces, as reported by the Hong Kong police. The local police reported that the calligraphy scroll was recovered along with two bronze coins. "Someone claimed that (the scroll) was too difficult to display because it was too long so it was cut in half," Senior Superintendent Tony Ho told reporters. The scroll is estimated to be worth at least US$300 million. It was one of the most valuable items that was stolen from Fu Chunxiao's home, a Chinese collector, last month. This scroll was stolen by a gang of three who also robbed more valuables from the collector's apartment. The stolen items were worth HK$5 billion ($645 million) approximately. The robbery has been identified as one of the most expensive heists, as the stoilen items contained expensive scrolls, antique stamps and revolutionary items from China and Hong Kong. As of now, one person has been arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods, another for burglary and the third for assisting a criminal. The investigation is still underway.

Mao Zedong's scroll worth $300 million found cut in half: Hong Kong police

A Hong Kong teacher has been struck off for allegedly promoting the city's independence in classes. The government on Tuesday hailed this as a blow against "black sheep" working in the education system.

The decision is the first time Hong Kong's Education Bureau has removed a teaching licence because of the content of lessons, and comes as a crackdown on democracy supporters in the city gathers pace.

"Our work has to continue to remove the black sheep from the field of education," Chief Executive Carrie Lam told reporters on Tuesday.

The Education Bureau said the primary school teacher had been struck off for "deliberately disseminating pro-independence messages".

Deputy secretary Chan Siu Suk-fan told a press conference Tuesday afternoon the teacher's lesson plan and materials for Primary Five students -- who are about 10 years old -- involved discussion of a banned political party that advocated Hong Kong independence, and also touched upon topics related to Tibet, Xinjiang and Taiwan independence.

Education has become a key target for Hong Kong's pro-Beijing administration after months of huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy rallies last year.&nbsp;

Many young people took part in the protests, which called for police accountability and greater autonomy for the city.&nbsp;

China's central government imposed a sweeping security law on Hong Kong in June, outlawing public calls for independence and other allegedly subversive political views, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Education minister Kevin Yeung said he would not transfer the case to the national security bureau because the infraction occurred before the new law came into effect.

Amnesty International's Joshua Rosenzweig, on his part, criticised the punishment and said it sent an "ominous message" to the city's educators on the risks of discussing current affairs, politics and human rights in the classroom.

 
&nbsp;

A Hong Kong teacher has been struck off for allegedly promoting the city's independence in classes. The government on Tuesday hailed this as a blow against "black sheep" working in the education system.

A Hong Kong teacher has been struck off for allegedly promoting the city's independence in classes. The government on Tuesday hailed this as a blow against "black sheep" working in the education system. The decision is the first time Hong Kong's Education Bureau has removed a teaching licence because of the content of lessons, and comes as a crackdown on democracy supporters in the city gathers pace. "Our work has to continue to remove the black sheep from the field of education," Chief Executive Carrie Lam told reporters on Tuesday. The Education Bureau said the primary school teacher had been struck off for "deliberately disseminating pro-independence messages". Deputy secretary Chan Siu Suk-fan told a press conference Tuesday afternoon the teacher's lesson plan and materials for Primary Five students -- who are about 10 years old -- involved discussion of a banned political party that advocated Hong Kong independence, and also touched upon topics related to Tibet, Xinjiang and Taiwan independence. Education has become a key target for Hong Kong's pro-Beijing administration after months of huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy rallies last year. Many young people took part in the protests, which called for police accountability and greater autonomy for the city. China's central government imposed a sweeping security law on Hong Kong in June, outlawing public calls for independence and other allegedly subversive political views, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Education minister Kevin Yeung said he would not transfer the case to the national security bureau because the infraction occurred before the new law came into effect. Amnesty International's Joshua Rosenzweig, on his part, criticised the punishment and said it sent an "ominous message" to the city's educators on the risks of discussing current affairs, politics and human rights in the classroom.

Hong Kong teacher struck off for holding 'pro-independence' classes

10 months into 2020 - and there is no respite from the Wuhan Virus. As more countries reimpose movement restrictions and lockdowns - China is celebrating, traveling, and repressing Hong Kong. WION's Palki has the details.

Gravitas: China is celebrating in the middle of the Pandemic

Leader Carrie Lam hailed the territory’s “return to peace” after months of sometimes violent protests, as the Hong Kong government marked China’s National Day on September 30. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Hong Kong marks 'China National Day', Carrie Lam slams sanctions against China

Members of a pro-democracy group marched towards the Hong Kong exhibition centre calling for the vindication of June 4th and the release of all political prisoners on Thursday (October 1) morning, as the city prepares to celebrate the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Hong Kong protesters call for release of political prisoners as city celebrates national day

China celebrates National Day in Hong Kong amid protests

Hong Kong celebrates China National Day: Lam slams sanctions against China

Chinese authorities formally approved the arrests on Wednesday of 12 Hong Kong activists caught last month while allegedly trying to flee the city for Taiwan.

The group was snared some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southeast of the city on August 23 while trying to escape by boat, authorities said at the time, adding that they were handed to police in Shenzhen, the mainland metropolis bordering Hong Kong.

They had since disappeared into China's opaque judicial system, with lawyers struggling to access them and family members expressing fear over their fate.

On Wednesday the People's Procuratorate of Yantian District in Shenzhen said it had approved the arrests.

Two of the detainees, referred to as Deng and Qiao respectively, were arrested on suspicion of helping the others escape Hong Kong.

These names were likely to refer to the Chinese surnames of detainees Tang Kai-yin and Quinn Moon.

The other 10 -- including suspects surnamed Li and Huang -- were arrested for making illegal border crossings.

The case remained under investigation, the statement said.

Some of those aboard the boat were facing prosecution in Hong Kong for activities linked to last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests.

Lu Siwei, one of the mainland lawyers working on the case, told AFP the period of detention for investigation could last up to seven months.

"Review of (the) detention's legality can be applied for any time," Lu added, but said that "for now it remains most important to seek a meeting with the 12 in custody".

At least 14 mainland lawyers hired by the detainees' families have been pressured by authorities to drop their clients, according to activists.

None of the lawyers have managed to see their clients in custody, while senior officials in Hong Kong said the 12 were assigned lawyers by mainland Chinese authorities.

Hong Kong has its own internationally respected common law legal system where detainees are promptly produced after their arrest and tried in open court, but the judicial system on the mainland is notoriously opaque and controlled by the Communist Party, such that conviction is all but guaranteed.

In June, Beijing imposed a new security law on Hong Kong, announcing it would have jurisdiction for some crimes and that mainland security agents could openly operate in the city.

The prospect of Hong Kongers getting entangled in China's judicial system was the spark that lit seven months of protests last year.

The movement began in response to a plan to allow extraditions to the mainland, and soon morphed into wider calls for democracy and greater police accountability.

As Beijing has cracked down on Hong Kong's democracy movement, democratic Taiwan has emerged as a sanctuary, quietly turning a blind eye to residents turning up without proper visas or paperwork.

Chinese authorities formally approved the arrests on Wednesday of 12 Hong Kong activists caught last month while allegedly trying to flee the city for Taiwan. The group was snared some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southeast of the city on August 23 while trying to escape by boat, authorities said at the time, adding that they were handed to police in Shenzhen, the mainland metropolis bordering Hong Kong.

Chinese authorities formally approved the arrests on Wednesday of 12 Hong Kong activists caught last month while allegedly trying to flee the city for Taiwan. The group was snared some 70 kilometres (43 miles) southeast of the city on August 23 while trying to escape by boat, authorities said at the time, adding that they were handed to police in Shenzhen, the mainland metropolis bordering Hong Kong. They had since disappeared into China's opaque judicial system, with lawyers struggling to access them and family members expressing fear over their fate. On Wednesday the People's Procuratorate of Yantian District in Shenzhen said it had approved the arrests. Two of the detainees, referred to as Deng and Qiao respectively, were arrested on suspicion of helping the others escape Hong Kong. These names were likely to refer to the Chinese surnames of detainees Tang Kai-yin and Quinn Moon. The other 10 -- including suspects surnamed Li and Huang -- were arrested for making illegal border crossings. The case remained under investigation, the statement said. Some of those aboard the boat were facing prosecution in Hong Kong for activities linked to last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests. Lu Siwei, one of the mainland lawyers working on the case, told AFP the period of detention for investigation could last up to seven months. "Review of (the) detention's legality can be applied for any time," Lu added, but said that "for now it remains most important to seek a meeting with the 12 in custody". At least 14 mainland lawyers hired by the detainees' families have been pressured by authorities to drop their clients, according to activists. None of the lawyers have managed to see their clients in custody, while senior officials in Hong Kong said the 12 were assigned lawyers by mainland Chinese authorities. Hong Kong has its own internationally respected common law legal system where detainees are promptly produced after their arrest and tried in open court, but the judicial system on the mainland is notoriously opaque and controlled by the Communist Party, such that conviction is all but guaranteed. In June, Beijing imposed a new security law on Hong Kong, announcing it would have jurisdiction for some crimes and that mainland security agents could openly operate in the city. The prospect of Hong Kongers getting entangled in China's judicial system was the spark that lit seven months of protests last year. The movement began in response to a plan to allow extraditions to the mainland, and soon morphed into wider calls for democracy and greater police accountability. As Beijing has cracked down on Hong Kong's democracy movement, democratic Taiwan has emerged as a sanctuary, quietly turning a blind eye to residents turning up without proper visas or paperwork.

China approves arrest of Hong Kong 'speedboat fugitives'

A Hong Kong appeals panel upheld a police ban on a mass protest planned for China National Day. Police asks protesters to stay home or risk arrest for the 1 October.

Wion Dispatch: Protesters vow to hold rally despite ban on China National Day in Hong Kong

A Hong Kong appeals panel upheld a police ban on a mass protest planned for China National Day. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong bans mass protest on China National Day

In a retaliatory measure by China, American diplomats who wish to visit Hong Kong government officials, other politicians or people from the city's educational institutes will need approval from Beijing, a report has claimed.

An internal document accessed by South China Morning Post (SCMC) read: "the US consul general in Hong Kong, his successors, or any personnel working on his behalf, must first obtain approval from the Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Commissioner in Hong Kong before visiting any Chinese local government facilities or meeting personnel from these institutions."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfo-meng-wanzhou-to-accuse-us-of-misleading-canada-in-extradition-case-330810">Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou to accuse US of misleading Canada in extradition case</a>

It also specifically said the approval would be required for even private, social and video meetings and includes "any Chinese public or private education organisation or society, and its personnel".

Felix Chung Kwok-pan, leader of Hong Kong's Liberal Party, said Chinese foreign ministry told him that US consulate general has to inform them before meeting members of island's political parties.&nbsp;

"The Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Commissioner in Hong Kong told me the US consulate general in Hong Kong has to inform them before meeting members of Hong Kong’s political parties," said Felix, as quoted by SCMC.

He also added that Chinese foreign ministry's department in Hong Kong told him two weeks back that it was not appropriate now for him to US's top diplomat of the region, who intended a discussion with him.

Earlier, the US on September 3 announced that any Chinese diplomats who plan a visit to the country would need permission following which only they would be allowed to meet local government personnel or visit university campuses.

The document specified that the requisite approval would be needed for official, private, social and video meetings, as well as meetings with “any Chinese public or private education organisation or society, and its personnel”.

In a retaliatory measure by China, American diplomats who wish to visit Hong Kong government officials, other politicians or people from the city's educational institutes will need approval from Beijing, a report has claimed.

In a retaliatory measure by China, American diplomats who wish to visit Hong Kong government officials, other politicians or people from the city's educational institutes will need approval from Beijing, a report has claimed. An internal document accessed by South China Morning Post (SCMC) read: "the US consul general in Hong Kong, his successors, or any personnel working on his behalf, must first obtain approval from the Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Commissioner in Hong Kong before visiting any Chinese local government facilities or meeting personnel from these institutions." Also read | Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou to accuse US of misleading Canada in extradition case It also specifically said the approval would be required for even private, social and video meetings and includes "any Chinese public or private education organisation or society, and its personnel". Felix Chung Kwok-pan, leader of Hong Kong's Liberal Party, said Chinese foreign ministry told him that US consulate general has to inform them before meeting members of island's political parties. "The Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Commissioner in Hong Kong told me the US consulate general in Hong Kong has to inform them before meeting members of Hong Kong’s political parties," said Felix, as quoted by SCMC. He also added that Chinese foreign ministry's department in Hong Kong told him two weeks back that it was not appropriate now for him to US's top diplomat of the region, who intended a discussion with him. Earlier, the US on September 3 announced that any Chinese diplomats who plan a visit to the country would need permission following which only they would be allowed to meet local government personnel or visit university campuses. The document specified that the requisite approval would be needed for official, private, social and video meetings, as well as meetings with “any Chinese public or private education organisation or society, and its personnel”.

US diplomats will require China's permission for meeting Hong Kong officials, politicians: Report

China was called out at the UNHRC by the West to restore basic legal rights in Hong Kong and open up to scrutiny its remote Xinjiang region where more than one million ethnic Uighurs are held.

China faces criticism at UNHRC over Hong Kong, Tibet & Xinjiang

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong&nbsp;has been arrested on suspicion of "participating in an unauthorised assembly on&nbsp;Oct 5 last year".

He was arrested around 1 pm when he was reporting to the Central Police Station.

The news was reported through his official Twitter account that read: "#BREAKING Joshua is arrested when reporting to Central Police Station at about 1pm today. The arrest is related to participating in an unauthorized assembly on Oct 5 last year. He is told to have violated the draconian anti-mask law as well."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> Joshua is arrested when reporting to Central Police Station at about 1pm today. The arrest is related to participating in an unauthorized assembly on 5Oct last year. He is told to have violated the draconian anti-mask law as well.
— Joshua Wong 黃之鋒 😷 (@joshuawongcf) <a href="https://twitter.com/joshuawongcf/status/1309016965659398145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 23-year-old pro-democracy figure was arrested after a Hong Kong court&nbsp;rejected Wong's challenge of the 2019 election disqualification. The court rejected it on&nbsp;procedural grounds.

He was&nbsp;the only candidate in the district council elections to be disqualified last year, and the authorities claimed&nbsp;his candidacy contravened electoral laws that bar “advocating or promoting self-determination” for the former British colony. He is yet to announce his plans of taking this fight further.

Wong is a Hong Kong local who led anti-government protests as a teenager in 2012 and 2014.&nbsp;He gained international spotlight as a student activist and as a&nbsp;secretary-general of the pro-democracy party Demosistō — which has now been disbanded due to the new Hong Kong Security Law imposed by China.

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The young activist&nbsp;played an important role in the Umbrella Movement that took place in Hong Kong in 2014. Wong has often stood against the government and fought for the rights of Hong Kong locals, students and demanded democracy.

Wong has also featured in the&nbsp;TIME magazine's Most Influential Teens of 2014 and was nominated for its 2014 Person of the Year.&nbsp;

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong has been arrested on suspicion of "participating in an unauthorised assembly on Oct 5 last year". He was arrested around 1 pm when he was reporting to the Central Police Station.

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong has been arrested on suspicion of "participating in an unauthorised assembly on Oct 5 last year". He was arrested around 1 pm when he was reporting to the Central Police Station. The news was reported through his official Twitter account that read: "#BREAKING Joshua is arrested when reporting to Central Police Station at about 1pm today. The arrest is related to participating in an unauthorized assembly on Oct 5 last year. He is told to have violated the draconian anti-mask law as well." #BREAKING Joshua is arrested when reporting to Central Police Station at about 1pm today. The arrest is related to participating in an unauthorized assembly on 5Oct last year. He is told to have violated the draconian anti-mask law as well. — Joshua Wong 黃之鋒 😷 (@joshuawongcf) September 24, 2020 × The 23-year-old pro-democracy figure was arrested after a Hong Kong court rejected Wong's challenge of the 2019 election disqualification. The court rejected it on procedural grounds. He was the only candidate in the district council elections to be disqualified last year, and the authorities claimed his candidacy contravened electoral laws that bar “advocating or promoting self-determination” for the former British colony. He is yet to announce his plans of taking this fight further. Wong is a Hong Kong local who led anti-government protests as a teenager in 2012 and 2014. He gained international spotlight as a student activist and as a secretary-general of the pro-democracy party Demosistō — which has now been disbanded due to the new Hong Kong Security Law imposed by China. × The young activist played an important role in the Umbrella Movement that took place in Hong Kong in 2014. Wong has often stood against the government and fought for the rights of Hong Kong locals, students and demanded democracy. Wong has also featured in the TIME magazine's Most Influential Teens of 2014 and was nominated for its 2014 Person of the Year.

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong arrested for 'unauthorised assembly'

China has changed the definition of a journalist in Hong Kong. You will be called a journalist only if you are recognised and registered with the Chinese state. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how Beijing's grip on Hong Kong is growing more firm.

Gravitas: China changes definition of 'Journalist'

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong arrested for 'unlawful assembly'

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday (September 22) that the 12 Hong Kong nationals recently detained in mainland China should be first tried by mainland authorities, citing that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" for which they must face legal liabilities.

HK leader refuses to help activists: Activists were trying to flee Taiwan

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's has weighed in favoured of detained Hong Kong nationals being tried in mainland China. Saying that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" she said that they needed to face legal liabilities.

These 12 individuals were arrested by Chinese coast guard on August 23. These 12 persons were travelling in a boat that was bound for Taiwan. They were arrested after their boat entered Chinese waters. Carrie Lam's stand has meant a refusal to help these Hong Kong nationals.

"Isn't it reasonable and fair that these twelve people should first face their legal liabilities in that other jurisdiction according to the law, and thereafter of course we will arrange for them to come back to face consequences," Lam said at a weekly news conference.

Lam assured that the Hong Kong government would provide "assistance" to the detainees, but said the mainland authorities' ruling must be respected.

All 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to anti-government protests that erupted last year. Ten had been charged, released on bail and not allowed to leave the former British colony, and all are now being detained in neighbouring Shenzhen.

(With Reuters inputs)

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's has weighed in favoured of detained Hong Kong nationals being tried in mainland China. Saying that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" she said that they needed to face legal liabilities.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's has weighed in favoured of detained Hong Kong nationals being tried in mainland China. Saying that they had "committed a crime in another jurisdiction" she said that they needed to face legal liabilities. These 12 individuals were arrested by Chinese coast guard on August 23. These 12 persons were travelling in a boat that was bound for Taiwan. They were arrested after their boat entered Chinese waters. Carrie Lam's stand has meant a refusal to help these Hong Kong nationals. "Isn't it reasonable and fair that these twelve people should first face their legal liabilities in that other jurisdiction according to the law, and thereafter of course we will arrange for them to come back to face consequences," Lam said at a weekly news conference. Lam assured that the Hong Kong government would provide "assistance" to the detainees, but said the mainland authorities' ruling must be respected. All 12 were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to anti-government protests that erupted last year. Ten had been charged, released on bail and not allowed to leave the former British colony, and all are now being detained in neighbouring Shenzhen. (With Reuters inputs)

Hong Kong: Carrie Lam refuses to help 12 protesters arrested in China

A Hong Kong court's decision to uphold a compulsory rule for migrant domestic workers to live with their employers drew criticism on Tuesday from labour rights advocates, who said it exposed foreign maids to conditions akin to modern slavery.

The live-in rule for Hong Kong's 370,000 domestic workers, mostly women from poor families in the Philippines and Indonesia, has long been denounced as discriminatory and inhumane - essentially putting employees on call 24 hours a day.

Monday's court ruling responded to a challenge to the requirement that was filed three years ago by Filipino Nancy Lubiano. She argued that the rule was unconstitutional and violated her labour rights.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/hong-kong-leader-says-12-detained-activists-should-first-be-tried-by-china-329399" hreflang="en">Hong Kong leader says 12 detained activists should first be tried by China</a>

But the Court of Appeal rejected her argument, and upheld a previous ruling by a lower court that found the live-in arrangement did not directly lead to exploitation.

"This is really outrageous and unacceptable," said Dolores Balladares, chairwoman of the United Filipinos in Hong Kong, which represents domestic workers from the Philippines.

"The decision is discriminatory to migrant domestic workers. It shows we are treated like second-class citizen, as modern-day slaves," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation by phone.

Labour groups have warned that the rule could deter the reporting of forced labour, which one in six migrant domestic workers in the city has suffered, according to a 2016 study by campaign group Justice Centre Hong Kong.

The government of the semi-autonomous Chinese city said it was "pleased" with the ruling reaffirming the live-in requirement as lawful.

Migrant domestic workers are aware of the accommodation arrangement before they accept jobs in the city, a government spokesman said in a statement, adding that authorities spare "no effort in safeguarding the rights and benefits" of the group.

Cynthia Abdon-Tellez, general manager of the Mission for Migrant Workers charity, said the live-in rule was discriminatory because it only applies to foreign domestic workers - pushing some into appalling living conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/cannabis-coffee-in-this-hong-kong-cafe-makes-you-relaxed-without-giving-a-high-328955" hreflang="en">Cannabis coffee in this Hong Kong cafe makes you relaxed without giving a high</a>

A 2017 survey carried out by her organisation found nearly half of foreign domestic workers did not have their own room, with some forced to sleep in kitchens or balconies in cramped apartments.

"They live in cupboards, toilets or in cubbyholes above the refrigerator or oven - whatever they can fit in. In some extreme cases, they live in what look like dog houses," Abdon-Tellez said.

Domestic workers generally have better protection in Hong Kong than elsewhere in Asia, with a legal minimum wage and one mandatory rest day per week.

But the mistreatment of maids in the financial hub has come under scrutiny since the 2014 case of Erwiana Sulistyaningsih, an Indonesian maid beaten by her employer and burned with boiling water.

&nbsp;

A Hong Kong court's decision to uphold a compulsory rule for migrant domestic workers to live with their employers drew criticism on Tuesday from labour rights advocates, who said it exposed foreign maids to conditions akin to modern slavery.

A Hong Kong court's decision to uphold a compulsory rule for migrant domestic workers to live with their employers drew criticism on Tuesday from labour rights advocates, who said it exposed foreign maids to conditions akin to modern slavery. The live-in rule for Hong Kong's 370,000 domestic workers, mostly women from poor families in the Philippines and Indonesia, has long been denounced as discriminatory and inhumane - essentially putting employees on call 24 hours a day. Monday's court ruling responded to a challenge to the requirement that was filed three years ago by Filipino Nancy Lubiano. She argued that the rule was unconstitutional and violated her labour rights. Also read: Hong Kong leader says 12 detained activists should first be tried by China But the Court of Appeal rejected her argument, and upheld a previous ruling by a lower court that found the live-in arrangement did not directly lead to exploitation. "This is really outrageous and unacceptable," said Dolores Balladares, chairwoman of the United Filipinos in Hong Kong, which represents domestic workers from the Philippines. "The decision is discriminatory to migrant domestic workers. It shows we are treated like second-class citizen, as modern-day slaves," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation by phone. Labour groups have warned that the rule could deter the reporting of forced labour, which one in six migrant domestic workers in the city has suffered, according to a 2016 study by campaign group Justice Centre Hong Kong. The government of the semi-autonomous Chinese city said it was "pleased" with the ruling reaffirming the live-in requirement as lawful. Migrant domestic workers are aware of the accommodation arrangement before they accept jobs in the city, a government spokesman said in a statement, adding that authorities spare "no effort in safeguarding the rights and benefits" of the group. Cynthia Abdon-Tellez, general manager of the Mission for Migrant Workers charity, said the live-in rule was discriminatory because it only applies to foreign domestic workers - pushing some into appalling living conditions. Also read: Cannabis coffee in this Hong Kong cafe makes you relaxed without giving a high A 2017 survey carried out by her organisation found nearly half of foreign domestic workers did not have their own room, with some forced to sleep in kitchens or balconies in cramped apartments. "They live in cupboards, toilets or in cubbyholes above the refrigerator or oven - whatever they can fit in. In some extreme cases, they live in what look like dog houses," Abdon-Tellez said. Domestic workers generally have better protection in Hong Kong than elsewhere in Asia, with a legal minimum wage and one mandatory rest day per week. But the mistreatment of maids in the financial hub has come under scrutiny since the 2014 case of Erwiana Sulistyaningsih, an Indonesian maid beaten by her employer and burned with boiling water.

Anger as Hong Kong court keeps 'discriminatory' live-in rule for migrant maids

Chan also supported the protest movement like many young Hong Kong residents. However, Chan's naked body was found floating in the sea on the morning of Sep 22 of last year. She lay dead for over 48 hours. The quest led to media coverage and conspiracy theories.

WION Dispatch: Chan Yin Lam case | Protesters accuse police of covering up the case

Hong Kong: Conspiracy theories refuse to die down in Chan Yin-Lam death case

Cannabis is a controlled, even banned substance in many parts of the world. However, the degree of control varies as per laws in different countries. In Hong Kong, a cafe serving Cannabis Coffee and Cannabis Beer has thrown open its doors for customers. What's more, the cafe is serving the beverages without breaking law of the land.

The cafe, going by the name 'Found' sells Cannabis coffee for USD 10 while you can swig a cannabis beer by paying USD 9.

THC, a compound found in canabis is known for giving person a high. However, CBD, a substance obtained from the cannabis plant is said to reduce stress without the high.

Found is said to have made use of CBD to create unique concoctions on the menu. Media reports quoted some of customers describing cannabis coffee as 'delicious'. Apart from coffee and beer, Found sells biscuits and fruit juices that contain CBD.

As per laws in Hong Kong, illicit import of cannabis or controlled cannabinoids is a crime. But CBD, the substance used to make the product in Found cafe does not fall under controlled cannabinoids. 
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Cannabis is a controlled, even banned substance in many parts of the world. However, the degree of control varies as per laws in different countries. In Hong Kong, a cafe serving Cannabis Coffee and Cannabis Beer has thrown open its doors for customers.

Cannabis is a controlled, even banned substance in many parts of the world. However, the degree of control varies as per laws in different countries. In Hong Kong, a cafe serving Cannabis Coffee and Cannabis Beer has thrown open its doors for customers. What's more, the cafe is serving the beverages without breaking law of the land. The cafe, going by the name 'Found' sells Cannabis coffee for USD 10 while you can swig a cannabis beer by paying USD 9. THC, a compound found in canabis is known for giving person a high. However, CBD, a substance obtained from the cannabis plant is said to reduce stress without the high. Found is said to have made use of CBD to create unique concoctions on the menu. Media reports quoted some of customers describing cannabis coffee as 'delicious'. Apart from coffee and beer, Found sells biscuits and fruit juices that contain CBD. As per laws in Hong Kong, illicit import of cannabis or controlled cannabinoids is a crime. But CBD, the substance used to make the product in Found cafe does not fall under controlled cannabinoids.

Cannabis coffee in this Hong Kong cafe makes you relaxed without giving a high

Walt Disney Co's live-action remake of "Mulan" opened on Thursday (September 17) to a lacklustre reception in Hong Kong, where pro-democracy activists have been leading calls to boycott the movie.

Disney's 'Mulan' gets cold reception in boycott-leading Hong Kong

Hong Kong's high court on Friday ruled that same-sex couples should receive equal treatment under inheritance law, in a step forward for LGBT rights in the finance hub.

But the victory came on the same day as a separate legal bid for full recognition of foreign same-sex marriages was struck down, underscoring what campaigners say is a lack of progress on equality issues.

Hong Kong's law does not allow same-sex marriage and does not recognise foreign unions, though limited recognition has been granted in recent years in several landmark rulings.

Edgar Ng, a gay Hong Konger, last year launched a legal challenge against the city's inheritance and intestacy laws, alleging discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

In 2018 he bought a government-subsidised flat, a year after marrying his partner in London, according to court documents.

Under Hong Kong's housing policy, his husband cannot be recognised as the joint homeowner, and Ng was concerned that should he die without a will, his property would not be passed to his partner.

In the judgement handed down Friday, Judge Anderson Chow said the exclusion of spouses in same-sex marriages from their legal entitlements "constitutes unlawful discrimination".

The judge said "differential treatment is not justified".

LGBT rights activists with campaign group Hong Kong Marriage Equality described the ruling as an "important victory".

"The government should seize this opportunity to work with the LGBT+ community to implement marriage equality in the city," the association said.

Excitement about the legal win was tempered however by a separate ruling on Friday that rejected an application for a judicial review into Hong Kong's law on recognising overseas gay marriage.

In 2018 the city announced that overseas same-sex partners would qualify for the right to live and work in Hong Kong, but other rights are still denied to same-sex couples.

Hong Kong's high court on Friday ruled that same-sex couples should receive equal treatment under inheritance law, in a step forward for LGBT rights in the finance hub.

Hong Kong's high court on Friday ruled that same-sex couples should receive equal treatment under inheritance law, in a step forward for LGBT rights in the finance hub. But the victory came on the same day as a separate legal bid for full recognition of foreign same-sex marriages was struck down, underscoring what campaigners say is a lack of progress on equality issues. Hong Kong's law does not allow same-sex marriage and does not recognise foreign unions, though limited recognition has been granted in recent years in several landmark rulings. Edgar Ng, a gay Hong Konger, last year launched a legal challenge against the city's inheritance and intestacy laws, alleging discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. In 2018 he bought a government-subsidised flat, a year after marrying his partner in London, according to court documents. Under Hong Kong's housing policy, his husband cannot be recognised as the joint homeowner, and Ng was concerned that should he die without a will, his property would not be passed to his partner. In the judgement handed down Friday, Judge Anderson Chow said the exclusion of spouses in same-sex marriages from their legal entitlements "constitutes unlawful discrimination". The judge said "differential treatment is not justified". LGBT rights activists with campaign group Hong Kong Marriage Equality described the ruling as an "important victory". "The government should seize this opportunity to work with the LGBT+ community to implement marriage equality in the city," the association said. Excitement about the legal win was tempered however by a separate ruling on Friday that rejected an application for a judicial review into Hong Kong's law on recognising overseas gay marriage. In 2018 the city announced that overseas same-sex partners would qualify for the right to live and work in Hong Kong, but other rights are still denied to same-sex couples.

Hong Kong gay couples win legal victory over inheritance law

One of the 14 foreign judges on Hong Kong`s highest court said he had resigned due to concerns over a sweeping new national security law imposed by Beijing on the former British colony, Australia`s national broadcaster reported on Friday.

The office of the city`s leader Carrie Lam confirmed the resignation of Australian judge James Spigelman but did not give a reason.

Spigelman, the former Chief Justice of New South Wales, is the first senior judge to resign and publicly criticise the law, passed by China`s parliament.

The Polish-born jurist told the ABC that he resigned for reasons "related to the content of the national security legislation" but did not elaborate further.

Spigelman did not immediately respond to a request from Reuters for comment.

His departure comes amid alarm in local and international legal circles at Beijing`s imposition of a national security law on the freewheeling financial hub, which boasts an independent legal system based on the common law.

Under the security legislation, Lam has the right to select judges for a panel of jurists to handle national security cases.

In the most serious cases, suspects can also be taken to mainland China for trial in its courts that are ultimately controlled by the Communist Party.

"Mr Justice Spigelman tendered to the Chief Executive on 2 September his resignation as a Non-Permanent Judge of the Court of Final Appeal, therefore the Chief Executive revoked his appointment in accordance with the relevant legislation," Lam`s office responded in an email to queries about his departure.

"Mr Justice Spigelman did not give any reason for his resignation," it said. A spokesman for the Judiciary said they had no further comment to offer.

Spigelman was re-appointed to another three-year term on the Hong Kong court last year.

Foreign judges have long been considered a symbol of Hong Kong`s judicial independence, helping to replace traditional role of the Privy Council in London after Britain handed the city back to Chinese rule in 1997.

One of the 14 foreign judges on Hong Kong`s highest court said he had resigned due to concerns over a sweeping new national security law imposed by Beijing on the former British colony, Australia`s national broadcaster reported on Friday.

One of the 14 foreign judges on Hong Kong`s highest court said he had resigned due to concerns over a sweeping new national security law imposed by Beijing on the former British colony, Australia`s national broadcaster reported on Friday. The office of the city`s leader Carrie Lam confirmed the resignation of Australian judge James Spigelman but did not give a reason. Spigelman, the former Chief Justice of New South Wales, is the first senior judge to resign and publicly criticise the law, passed by China`s parliament. The Polish-born jurist told the ABC that he resigned for reasons "related to the content of the national security legislation" but did not elaborate further. Spigelman did not immediately respond to a request from Reuters for comment. His departure comes amid alarm in local and international legal circles at Beijing`s imposition of a national security law on the freewheeling financial hub, which boasts an independent legal system based on the common law. Under the security legislation, Lam has the right to select judges for a panel of jurists to handle national security cases. In the most serious cases, suspects can also be taken to mainland China for trial in its courts that are ultimately controlled by the Communist Party. "Mr Justice Spigelman tendered to the Chief Executive on 2 September his resignation as a Non-Permanent Judge of the Court of Final Appeal, therefore the Chief Executive revoked his appointment in accordance with the relevant legislation," Lam`s office responded in an email to queries about his departure. "Mr Justice Spigelman did not give any reason for his resignation," it said. A spokesman for the Judiciary said they had no further comment to offer. Spigelman was re-appointed to another three-year term on the Hong Kong court last year. Foreign judges have long been considered a symbol of Hong Kong`s judicial independence, helping to replace traditional role of the Privy Council in London after Britain handed the city back to Chinese rule in 1997.

Foreign judge quits Hong Kong's top court, cites national security law concerns

China has been tightening it's grip over the pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong since the national security law (NSL) came into force. 12 Hong Kong residents, including an activist charged under the city’s National Security Law, have been detained by China’s coastguard while trying to flee to Taiwan.

China tightens it's grip over the pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong after NSL

Coronavirus travel restrictions have literally emptied waters around Hong Kong of boats and ferries and due to the quiet, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins are making a comeback, giving scientists a once in a lifetime opportunity to study the impact of underwater noise on the aquatic mammals.

Rare dolphins make a comeback in quieter Hong Kong waters

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Anger as Hong Kong court keeps 'discriminatory' live-in rule for migrant maids