China accused the United States of "gangster logic" on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump ordered an end to Hong Kong's special status under US law in response to Beijing's imposition of new security legislation on the territory.

Beijing's Liaison Office in the Asian financial hub said the move would only damage US interests while having little impact on Hong Kong.

"Unreasonable meddling and shameless threats by the United States are typical gangster logic and bullying behaviour," the office said in a statement.

"No external force can block China's determination and confidence to maintain national sovereignty and security for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability."

The security law imposed by Beijing punishes what China broadly defines as subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison.

Critics of the law fear it will crush the wide-ranging freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, while supporters say it will bring stability to the city after a year of sometimes violent anti-government protests.

Trump on Tuesday signed an executive order to end preferential economic treatment for Hong Kong, allowing him to impose sanctions and visa restrictions on Chinese officials and financial institutions involved in the imposition of the law.

China has threatened to impose retaliatory sanctions of its own, and summoned the US ambassador to protest.

The Hong Kong government said on Wednesday it would support any action Beijing chose to take against the United States.

"It is hypocritical for the US to introduce measures to attack China by creating issues in (Hong Kong) under the pretext of human rights, democracy and autonomy out of its own political considerations," the territory's Beijing-backed government said in a statement.

Four members of a pro-establishment party, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, staged a protest at the US consulate on Thursday demanding the United States "stop interfering in Chinese internal affairs."

Trump has not ruled out sanctions on top Chinese officials to punish China for its handling of Hong Kong, a White House National Security Council spokesman said on Wednesday.

Among names being pushed by some China hawks is Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, who has backed Beijing's implementation of the security law, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Separately Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Nathan Law said on Wednesday he feels safe in London but described the extra-territorial reach of national security laws imposed by China as "scary", and urged Britain to do more to help.

China accused the United States of "gangster logic" on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump ordered an end to Hong Kong's special status under US law in response to Beijing's imposition of new security legislation on the territory.

China accused the United States of "gangster logic" on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump ordered an end to Hong Kong's special status under US law in response to Beijing's imposition of new security legislation on the territory. Beijing's Liaison Office in the Asian financial hub said the move would only damage US interests while having little impact on Hong Kong. "Unreasonable meddling and shameless threats by the United States are typical gangster logic and bullying behaviour," the office said in a statement. "No external force can block China's determination and confidence to maintain national sovereignty and security for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability." The security law imposed by Beijing punishes what China broadly defines as subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. Critics of the law fear it will crush the wide-ranging freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, while supporters say it will bring stability to the city after a year of sometimes violent anti-government protests. Trump on Tuesday signed an executive order to end preferential economic treatment for Hong Kong, allowing him to impose sanctions and visa restrictions on Chinese officials and financial institutions involved in the imposition of the law. China has threatened to impose retaliatory sanctions of its own, and summoned the US ambassador to protest. The Hong Kong government said on Wednesday it would support any action Beijing chose to take against the United States. "It is hypocritical for the US to introduce measures to attack China by creating issues in (Hong Kong) under the pretext of human rights, democracy and autonomy out of its own political considerations," the territory's Beijing-backed government said in a statement. Four members of a pro-establishment party, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, staged a protest at the US consulate on Thursday demanding the United States "stop interfering in Chinese internal affairs." Trump has not ruled out sanctions on top Chinese officials to punish China for its handling of Hong Kong, a White House National Security Council spokesman said on Wednesday. Among names being pushed by some China hawks is Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, who has backed Beijing's implementation of the security law, according to a person familiar with the matter. Separately Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Nathan Law said on Wednesday he feels safe in London but described the extra-territorial reach of national security laws imposed by China as "scary", and urged Britain to do more to help.

China slams US sanctions related to Hong Kong as 'gangster logic'

US President Donald Trump ordered an end to Hong Kong's special status under US law in response to Beijing's imposition of new security legislation on the territory.

Donald Trump signs executive order to end Hong Kong special status

Hong Kong is dying a slow death and self-censorship is now the norm with people looking for ways to leave.

Businesses want to exit and the city has lost its special status around the world.&nbsp;Free speech is dead in Hong Kong with&nbsp;publishers censoring their books.

Raymond Yeung, a publisher in Hong Kong has scrambled to change the draft of a&nbsp;book in the past week. It is called “to freedom”. It is a collection of essays by 50 protesters, lawyers, social workers and people who took part in the pro-democracy protests but now&nbsp;the new security law has stifled freedom of expression.

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Words like revolution are being replaced with protests.&nbsp;Slogans and passages that advocated freedom&nbsp;for&nbsp;Hong Kong are now being deleted.

Words like "independence" and "revolution" are out of the books in Hong Kong and now&nbsp;something else is going out of Hong Kong -&nbsp;&nbsp;money.

China has moved swiftly to exert greater control over Hong Kong&nbsp;but&nbsp;it has also sacrificed its biggest cash cow.&nbsp;A report claims that Chinese professionals want to move out of Hong Kong and it's not just about the national security law.

China is now tracking down its citizens living abroad and taxing them. They face a tax rate of 45 per cent. Hong Kong has one of the lowest tax rates in the world and that’s the reason why many professionals and businesses prefer to operate from there but&nbsp;the demand for more taxes could force them to leave.

It is a double whammy for China,&nbsp;not only will its tax revenue reduce, businesses leaving Hong Kong will trigger a brain drain too.

China has only created more trouble for itself with the national security law.&nbsp;Hong Kong was vital for the Chinese economy. It was China’s economic gateway to the world,&nbsp;not anymore.

China uses Hong Kong’s currency, equity and debt markets to attract foreign funds. Chinese companies use Hong Kong to expand globally with&nbsp;bulk of FDI&nbsp;into China channeled through the city.

Last year, Chinese companies raised more than $64 billion globally with $35 billion coming&nbsp;through Hong Kong.&nbsp;Chinese banks hold more assets in Hong Kong. They were valued at $1.1 trillion in 2018.

All this was possible because Hong Kong was treated differently but now&nbsp;leading world powers want to treat the city as part of the mainland.

They are slapping sanctions and curbing the flow of funds.

Hong Kong is dying a slow death and self-censorship is now the norm with people looking for ways to leave. Businesses want to exit and the city has lost its special status around the world.

Hong Kong is dying a slow death and self-censorship is now the norm with people looking for ways to leave. Businesses want to exit and the city has lost its special status around the world. Free speech is dead in Hong Kong with publishers censoring their books. Raymond Yeung, a publisher in Hong Kong has scrambled to change the draft of a book in the past week. It is called “to freedom”. It is a collection of essays by 50 protesters, lawyers, social workers and people who took part in the pro-democracy protests but now the new security law has stifled freedom of expression. Words like revolution are being replaced with protests. Slogans and passages that advocated freedom for Hong Kong are now being deleted. Words like "independence" and "revolution" are out of the books in Hong Kong and now something else is going out of Hong Kong - money. China has moved swiftly to exert greater control over Hong Kong but it has also sacrificed its biggest cash cow. A report claims that Chinese professionals want to move out of Hong Kong and it's not just about the national security law. China is now tracking down its citizens living abroad and taxing them. They face a tax rate of 45 per cent. Hong Kong has one of the lowest tax rates in the world and that’s the reason why many professionals and businesses prefer to operate from there but the demand for more taxes could force them to leave. It is a double whammy for China, not only will its tax revenue reduce, businesses leaving Hong Kong will trigger a brain drain too. China has only created more trouble for itself with the national security law. Hong Kong was vital for the Chinese economy. It was China’s economic gateway to the world, not anymore. China uses Hong Kong’s currency, equity and debt markets to attract foreign funds. Chinese companies use Hong Kong to expand globally with bulk of FDI into China channeled through the city. Last year, Chinese companies raised more than $64 billion globally with $35 billion coming through Hong Kong. Chinese banks hold more assets in Hong Kong. They were valued at $1.1 trillion in 2018. All this was possible because Hong Kong was treated differently but now leading world powers want to treat the city as part of the mainland. They are slapping sanctions and curbing the flow of funds.

Hong Kong bleeds as China imposes new security law

The city of Hong Kong is dying a slow death. Publishers are practicing self-censorship. Professionals are thinking about moving out of the city. Has the new National Security Law created more trouble for China?

Gravitas: Hong Kong is dying a slow death

China's new security law has sent a chill through Hong Kong's schools and universities with many teachers fearful the city's reputation for academic freedom and excellence is now at risk. 
 
Just a week after the sweeping legislation was imposed on the territory, staff at some institutions have already been warned by their administrators to be careful how they teach.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-pledges-retaliation-against-us-over-hong-kong-sanctions-313344" hreflang="en">China pledges retaliation against US over Hong Kong sanctions</a> 
 
"Remain neutral in your teaching and be mindful of the language you use," read one email to staff of HKU SPACE, a college attached to the prestigious University of Hong Kong (HKU). 
 
"Any behaviour in eliciting further discussion on sensitive issues MUST be avoided," the email from the program director of the humanities and law faculty said. 
 
It ended with a warning of "zero-tolerance against politics or personal political views brought into classrooms". 
 
One recipient told AFP the instruction amounted to self censorship. 
 
"This may be partly out of genuine concern for staff, but it strangles free speech without the government having to lift a finger," said a lecturer who asked not to be identified. 
 
In a statement, HKU said the email was "private correspondence" and not official policy, but it added that classrooms must be "a politically neutral space where participants focus on academic learning".

'Campuses infiltrated' 
Hong Kong has some of Asia's best schools and universities and -- compared with China's party-controlled education system -- boasts an open campus culture of critical analysis and tackling subjects that are unapproachable on the mainland. 
 
But all that could be changing. 
 
China's leaders have made it clear they view Hong Kong's education system as one of the driving factors behind last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests. 
 
They have ordered the city to instil more "patriotic" education and ensure the new security laws are obeyed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-not-interested-in-china-trade-talks-ends-hong-kong-preferential-status-313332" hreflang="en">Trump not interested in China trade talks, ends Hong Kong preferential status</a> 
 
Hong Kong's education chief has since banned students from singing a popular protest anthem, while public and school libraries are pulling books that might breach the new rules. 
 
At a speech to an education summit last weekend, city leader Carrie Lam said schools and universities had become "politicised". 
 
"Anti-central government and anti-government forces are trying to infiltrate our campuses," she said, adding that student resentment was also fuelled by "negative media reports about our country". 
 
Pro-Beijing politicians have even proposed installing cameras in classrooms to keep a tab on teachers. 
 
"Academic freedom... can't override laws and give students an excuse to do whatever they want," Tommy Cheung, a cabinet member who also sits on the council of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, told AFP. 
 
Asked about the idea of cameras in classrooms he replied: "If you are not saying anything that you would not be afraid of being heard, then why would you fear being recorded?" 
 
China's definition of national security extends beyond the standard concepts of threats such as terrorism and military attacks, and is often used to crush domestic criticism on the mainland. 
 
The Hong Kong version contains many ambiguously worded provisions, including against "inducing hatred" of the government. 
 
Harder to hire 
As a result, some teachers say they already fear overstepping invisible red lines -- even mistakenly. 
 
"Should we uphold the critical thinking approach or should we toe the official line for better safety," said Benson Wong, a lecturer at the Education University of Hong Kong. 
 
A history teacher at an international school said he already avoided asking students to write essays about controversial topics, preferring conversations instead. 
 
"The vagaries of the national security law are designed to chill and quell discussion because one cannot know when they have stepped over the line," he told AFP.&nbsp; 
 
"A true education in history and social studies is not about remembering a story or being able to regurgitate a national myth." 
 
Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a prominent scholar of Chinese politics, said Hong Kong's universities were already struggling to attract the best global talent. 
 
"People are getting more hesitant to come," he told AFP, noting that it had become all but impossible in recent years to arrange conferences in Hong Kong on taboo topics such as Taiwan, Xinjiang and Tibet. 
 
Others said they would consider leaving if the situation deteriorates further. 
 
"I haven't yet determined where my line is," one lecturer at CUHK told AFP, asking to remain anonymous. 
 
"I suspect I'll know it when it's crossed, and at that moment I hope I'll have the courage of my convictions."

China's new security law has sent a chill through Hong Kong's schools and universities with many teachers fearful the city's reputation for academic freedom and excellence is now at risk.

China's new security law has sent a chill through Hong Kong's schools and universities with many teachers fearful the city's reputation for academic freedom and excellence is now at risk. Just a week after the sweeping legislation was imposed on the territory, staff at some institutions have already been warned by their administrators to be careful how they teach. Also read: China pledges retaliation against US over Hong Kong sanctions "Remain neutral in your teaching and be mindful of the language you use," read one email to staff of HKU SPACE, a college attached to the prestigious University of Hong Kong (HKU). "Any behaviour in eliciting further discussion on sensitive issues MUST be avoided," the email from the program director of the humanities and law faculty said. It ended with a warning of "zero-tolerance against politics or personal political views brought into classrooms". One recipient told AFP the instruction amounted to self censorship. "This may be partly out of genuine concern for staff, but it strangles free speech without the government having to lift a finger," said a lecturer who asked not to be identified. In a statement, HKU said the email was "private correspondence" and not official policy, but it added that classrooms must be "a politically neutral space where participants focus on academic learning". 'Campuses infiltrated' Hong Kong has some of Asia's best schools and universities and -- compared with China's party-controlled education system -- boasts an open campus culture of critical analysis and tackling subjects that are unapproachable on the mainland. But all that could be changing. China's leaders have made it clear they view Hong Kong's education system as one of the driving factors behind last year's huge and often violent pro-democracy protests. They have ordered the city to instil more "patriotic" education and ensure the new security laws are obeyed. Also read: Trump not interested in China trade talks, ends Hong Kong preferential status Hong Kong's education chief has since banned students from singing a popular protest anthem, while public and school libraries are pulling books that might breach the new rules. At a speech to an education summit last weekend, city leader Carrie Lam said schools and universities had become "politicised". "Anti-central government and anti-government forces are trying to infiltrate our campuses," she said, adding that student resentment was also fuelled by "negative media reports about our country". Pro-Beijing politicians have even proposed installing cameras in classrooms to keep a tab on teachers. "Academic freedom... can't override laws and give students an excuse to do whatever they want," Tommy Cheung, a cabinet member who also sits on the council of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, told AFP. Asked about the idea of cameras in classrooms he replied: "If you are not saying anything that you would not be afraid of being heard, then why would you fear being recorded?" China's definition of national security extends beyond the standard concepts of threats such as terrorism and military attacks, and is often used to crush domestic criticism on the mainland. The Hong Kong version contains many ambiguously worded provisions, including against "inducing hatred" of the government. Harder to hire As a result, some teachers say they already fear overstepping invisible red lines -- even mistakenly. "Should we uphold the critical thinking approach or should we toe the official line for better safety," said Benson Wong, a lecturer at the Education University of Hong Kong. A history teacher at an international school said he already avoided asking students to write essays about controversial topics, preferring conversations instead. "The vagaries of the national security law are designed to chill and quell discussion because one cannot know when they have stepped over the line," he told AFP. "A true education in history and social studies is not about remembering a story or being able to regurgitate a national myth." Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a prominent scholar of Chinese politics, said Hong Kong's universities were already struggling to attract the best global talent. "People are getting more hesitant to come," he told AFP, noting that it had become all but impossible in recent years to arrange conferences in Hong Kong on taboo topics such as Taiwan, Xinjiang and Tibet. Others said they would consider leaving if the situation deteriorates further. "I haven't yet determined where my line is," one lecturer at CUHK told AFP, asking to remain anonymous. "I suspect I'll know it when it's crossed, and at that moment I hope I'll have the courage of my convictions."

Hong Kong academics fear for freedom under new security law

The New York Times on Wednesday said it was moving its digital news hub from Hong Kong to South Korea as a result of a national security law Beijing imposed on the city.

"China's sweeping new national security law in Hong Kong has created a lot of uncertainty about what the new rules will mean to our operation and our journalism," executives wrote in an email to staff, according to a news report published on the New York Times website.

"We feel it is prudent to make contingency plans and begin to diversify our editing staff around the region."

The newspaper has had a regional headquarters in Hong Kong for decades, overseeing Asia coverage and more recently helping to run the newspaper's 24-hour digital news operation.

In its own news report, the Times said it would move its digital team of journalists -- roughly one-third of its Hong Kong employees —- to Seoul over the next year.

It is the first major relocation by an international news organisation since Beijing imposed a sweeping security law on Hong Kong late last month.

The new law has sent a chill through the city because its broad wording criminalises some political speech and ramps up Communist Party control over the city.

One provision expressly calls upon authorities to&nbsp;"strengthen the management" of foreign news organisations.

The Times report said it had recently "faced challenges securing work permits" for its staff in Hong Kong, something it said was "commonplace in China but were rarely an issue in the former colony".

Hong Kong has been a major regional hub for international media for decades thanks to its easy business environment and key civil liberties that Beijing pledged to protect until 2047 under the handover deal with Britain.

Alongside the New York Times, media organisations that have major regional hubs in Hong Kong include AFP, CNN, the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg and the Financial Times.&nbsp;

The New York Times on Wednesday said it was moving its digital news hub from Hong Kong to South Korea as a result of a national security law Beijing imposed on the city.

The New York Times on Wednesday said it was moving its digital news hub from Hong Kong to South Korea as a result of a national security law Beijing imposed on the city. "China's sweeping new national security law in Hong Kong has created a lot of uncertainty about what the new rules will mean to our operation and our journalism," executives wrote in an email to staff, according to a news report published on the New York Times website. "We feel it is prudent to make contingency plans and begin to diversify our editing staff around the region." The newspaper has had a regional headquarters in Hong Kong for decades, overseeing Asia coverage and more recently helping to run the newspaper's 24-hour digital news operation. In its own news report, the Times said it would move its digital team of journalists -- roughly one-third of its Hong Kong employees —- to Seoul over the next year. It is the first major relocation by an international news organisation since Beijing imposed a sweeping security law on Hong Kong late last month. The new law has sent a chill through the city because its broad wording criminalises some political speech and ramps up Communist Party control over the city. One provision expressly calls upon authorities to "strengthen the management" of foreign news organisations. The Times report said it had recently "faced challenges securing work permits" for its staff in Hong Kong, something it said was "commonplace in China but were rarely an issue in the former colony". Hong Kong has been a major regional hub for international media for decades thanks to its easy business environment and key civil liberties that Beijing pledged to protect until 2047 under the handover deal with Britain. Alongside the New York Times, media organisations that have major regional hubs in Hong Kong include AFP, CNN, the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg and the Financial Times.

NYT to move some Hong Kong staff over security law

Taiwan is pitching democracy to its investors amid political turmoil in Hong Kong&nbsp;to draw more foreign money and talent.

The country's top financial regulator emphasized the high quality of life and rule of law in the nation to lure more investors and take advantage of the situation.

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Taiwan has been in discussion with foreign financial institutions about increasing the investment in the country according to Financial Supervisory Chairman Huang Tien-mu.

This has been ongoing. It's not only aimed at Hong Kong," Huang said in his first interview with foreign media since being appointed to the post in late May.

The commission has been pushing financial reform to attract money and talent from around the region, and to bring Taiwan's financial system in line with international standards, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-620-million-missile-upgrade-package-for-taiwan-312188">US approves $620 million missile upgrade package for Taiwan</a>

"Our main aim is not to replace any particular region or city," Huang added, when asked if China's new national security law for Hong Kong was an opportunity for Taiwan to supplant the city as Asia's financial centre.

"We hope to attract not only people or funds from one place. We hope to make Taiwan's market even more competitive, so it becomes a financial market that gets more attention in Asia."

Chinese-claimed and democratic Taiwan has condemned the new law, and anti-government protesters in the former British colony have won widespread and cross-party support on the island.

Taiwan opened an office this month to help people fleeing Hong Kong after China imposed the security law on the city, with a senior minister saying at the time Taiwan hoped to seize the opportunity to attract professionals and capital from the city.

But Huang, 61, said problems include Taiwan's more complex tax system, lower salaries, lack of wide usage of English and financial regulations that may be relatively liberal but are not as free as other parts of the world.

"In the short term, this is perhaps not something we can be like others with," added Huang, who started his career in Taiwan's Finance Ministry and has a doctorate from the University of Southern California.

"But Taiwan has its attractions. Our democratic system, rule of law that is transparent," Huang said, pointing to its freedom of speech, ability to elect its own leaders and even legalising of same-sex marriage.

"I've been to many international meetings, and I feel that everyone likes Taiwan - they feel very relaxed when they come here."

&nbsp;

Taiwan is pitching democracy to its investors amid political turmoil in Hong Kong to draw more foreign money and talent. The country's top financial regulator emphasized the high quality of life and rule of law in the nation to lure more investors and take advantage of the situation.

Taiwan is pitching democracy to its investors amid political turmoil in Hong Kong to draw more foreign money and talent. The country's top financial regulator emphasized the high quality of life and rule of law in the nation to lure more investors and take advantage of the situation. Also read| Eye on Taiwan: Now, China puts stealth fighter jet J-20B in mass production Taiwan has been in discussion with foreign financial institutions about increasing the investment in the country according to Financial Supervisory Chairman Huang Tien-mu. This has been ongoing. It's not only aimed at Hong Kong," Huang said in his first interview with foreign media since being appointed to the post in late May. The commission has been pushing financial reform to attract money and talent from around the region, and to bring Taiwan's financial system in line with international standards, he said. Also read: US approves $620 million missile upgrade package for Taiwan "Our main aim is not to replace any particular region or city," Huang added, when asked if China's new national security law for Hong Kong was an opportunity for Taiwan to supplant the city as Asia's financial centre. "We hope to attract not only people or funds from one place. We hope to make Taiwan's market even more competitive, so it becomes a financial market that gets more attention in Asia." Chinese-claimed and democratic Taiwan has condemned the new law, and anti-government protesters in the former British colony have won widespread and cross-party support on the island. Taiwan opened an office this month to help people fleeing Hong Kong after China imposed the security law on the city, with a senior minister saying at the time Taiwan hoped to seize the opportunity to attract professionals and capital from the city. But Huang, 61, said problems include Taiwan's more complex tax system, lower salaries, lack of wide usage of English and financial regulations that may be relatively liberal but are not as free as other parts of the world. "In the short term, this is perhaps not something we can be like others with," added Huang, who started his career in Taiwan's Finance Ministry and has a doctorate from the University of Southern California. "But Taiwan has its attractions. Our democratic system, rule of law that is transparent," Huang said, pointing to its freedom of speech, ability to elect its own leaders and even legalising of same-sex marriage. "I've been to many international meetings, and I feel that everyone likes Taiwan - they feel very relaxed when they come here."

Taiwan pitching democracy to its investors amid Hong Kong convulsion

Hong Kong reported 19 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, including 14 that were locally transmitted, as new social distancing measures came into force and as authorities warned that the risk of a large-scale outbreak remained high.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/beijings-hong-kong-office-warns-pro-democracy-poll-could-violate-new-security-law-313130" hreflang="en">Beijing's Hong Kong office warns pro-democracy poll could violate new security law</a>

Wednesday's toll dropped substantially from Tuesday's 48 new cases. The city had registered a sharp increase in the number of cases in the past week with the majority of cases transmitted locally.

Since late January, the global financial hub has reported more than 1,500 cases and eight deaths.

Strict measures

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;will imposed strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/hong-kong-activist-nathan-law-moves-to-uk-vows-fight-will-continue-313144" hreflang="en">Hong Kong activist Nathan Law moves to UK; vows fight will continue</a>

The measures dictate that face masks will be mandatory for people using public transport and restaurants will no longer provide dine in services and only offer takeaway after 6 pm.

Both are new rules that were not implemented during the city's first and second coronavirus waves earlier this year. If a person does not wear a mask on public transport, they face a fine of HK$5,000 ($645).

Hong Kong reported 19 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, including 14 that were locally transmitted, as new social distancing measures came into force and as authorities warned that the risk of a large-scale outbreak remained high.

Hong Kong reported 19 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, including 14 that were locally transmitted, as new social distancing measures came into force and as authorities warned that the risk of a large-scale outbreak remained high. Also read: Beijing's Hong Kong office warns pro-democracy poll could violate new security law Wednesday's toll dropped substantially from Tuesday's 48 new cases. The city had registered a sharp increase in the number of cases in the past week with the majority of cases transmitted locally. Since late January, the global financial hub has reported more than 1,500 cases and eight deaths. Strict measures Hong Kong will imposed strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high. Also read: Hong Kong activist Nathan Law moves to UK; vows fight will continue The measures dictate that face masks will be mandatory for people using public transport and restaurants will no longer provide dine in services and only offer takeaway after 6 pm. Both are new rules that were not implemented during the city's first and second coronavirus waves earlier this year. If a person does not wear a mask on public transport, they face a fine of HK$5,000 ($645).

Hong Kong reports 19 new coronavirus cases, down from recent spike

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;will impose strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high.&nbsp;

The measures dictate that face masks will be mandatory for people using public transport and restaurants will no longer provide dine in services and only offer takeaway after 6 pm.

Both are new rules that were not implemented during the city's first and second coronavirus waves earlier this year. If a person does not wear a mask on public transport, they face a fine of HK$5,000 ($645).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/hong-kong-activist-nathan-law-moves-to-uk-vows-fight-will-continue-313144" hreflang="en">Hong Kong activist Nathan Law moves to UK; vows fight will continue</a>

Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday the government would limit group gatherings to four people from 50 - a measure last seen during a second wave in March.&nbsp;

Twelve types of establishments including gyms and places of amusement must shut for a week.

"The recent emergence of local cases of unknown infection source indicates the existence of sustained silent transmission in the community," the government said in a statement late on Monday.

The Chinese-ruled city recorded 52 new cases of coronavirus on Monday, including 41 that were locally transmitted, health authorities said. Since late January,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has reported 1,522 cases and local media reported an eighth death on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/beijings-hong-kong-office-warns-pro-democracy-poll-could-violate-new-security-law-313130" hreflang="en">Beijing's Hong Kong office warns pro-democracy poll could violate new security law</a>

The government said it is very concerned about the high number of imported cases and planned to impose further measures on travellers from high-risk places, including securing mandatory negative test results before arrival.&nbsp;

Lam said the measures were the result of a three-way tug of war between considerations related to public health, economic impact and social acceptability and that the city may need to co-exist with the virus for a period of time.

More than 13.02 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 569,336​ have died, according to a Reuters tally.

Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December 2019.

Hong Kong will impose strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high.

Hong Kong will impose strict new social distancing measures from midnight Tuesday, the most stringent in the Asian financial hub since the coronavirus broke out, as authorities warn the risk of a large-scale outbreak is extremely high. The measures dictate that face masks will be mandatory for people using public transport and restaurants will no longer provide dine in services and only offer takeaway after 6 pm. Both are new rules that were not implemented during the city's first and second coronavirus waves earlier this year. If a person does not wear a mask on public transport, they face a fine of HK$5,000 ($645). Also read: Hong Kong activist Nathan Law moves to UK; vows fight will continue Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Monday the government would limit group gatherings to four people from 50 - a measure last seen during a second wave in March. Twelve types of establishments including gyms and places of amusement must shut for a week. "The recent emergence of local cases of unknown infection source indicates the existence of sustained silent transmission in the community," the government said in a statement late on Monday. The Chinese-ruled city recorded 52 new cases of coronavirus on Monday, including 41 that were locally transmitted, health authorities said. Since late January, Hong Kong has reported 1,522 cases and local media reported an eighth death on Monday. Also read: Beijing's Hong Kong office warns pro-democracy poll could violate new security law The government said it is very concerned about the high number of imported cases and planned to impose further measures on travellers from high-risk places, including securing mandatory negative test results before arrival. Lam said the measures were the result of a three-way tug of war between considerations related to public health, economic impact and social acceptability and that the city may need to co-exist with the virus for a period of time. More than 13.02 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 569,336 have died, according to a Reuters tally. Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December 2019.

Hong Kong to impose most severe social distancing restrictions

Beijing's top representative office in Hong Kong has warned the pro-democracy opposition's primary elections at the weekend could violate a new national security law, exacerbating concerns over a crackdown on the former British colony's democracy movement.

Preliminary results showed a group of young democrats, or "localists", performed strongly in the elections that drew more than 600,000 votes, reflecting a potential change of guard to a more radical grouping likely to rile authorities in Beijing.

The primary polls are aimed at selecting democracy candidates who stand the best chance of success in September elections for the Legislative Council, Hong Kong's governing body. Final results are due later on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/majority-of-us-firms-in-hong-kong-concerned-about-security-law-312843" hreflang="en">Majority of US firms in Hong Kong concerned about security law</a>

Many observers see the election as a symbolic protest vote against the tough new security law that punishes what Beijing broadly defines as subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison.

"The goal of organiser Benny Tai and the opposition camp is to seize the ruling power of Hong Kong and ... carry out a Hong Kong version of 'color revolution'," a spokesman for the Liaison Office said in a statement just before midnight on Monday.

Luo Huining, the head of the Liaison Office, will have oversight over the implementation of the contentious security law that will also allow mainland security agents to be officially based in China's freest city for the first time.&nbsp;

Critics of the law fear it will crush wide-ranging freedoms promised to Hong Kong when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, while supporters say it will bring stability to the city after a year of sometimes violent anti-government protests.&nbsp;

The law has drawn condemnation from Western nations, with the European Union saying on Monday it is working on measures to punish Beijing for the move, including a possible review of EU governments' extradition treaties' with the financial hub and offering more visas to its citizens.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/500000-hong-kongers-cast-protest-vote-against-new-security-laws-312766" hreflang="en">500,000 Hong Kongers cast 'protest' vote against new security laws</a>

The law has also seen countries such as Britain and Canada caution citizens over an increased risk of arbitrary detention in Hong Kong and possible extradition to mainland China where they could face trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party.&nbsp;

Australia last week said it was suspending its extradition treaty with Hong Kong due to the security law and was offering students, graduates and workers in Australia on temporary visas the opportunity to stay and work for an additional five years.&nbsp;

Finland said on Monday the Nordic country's extradition treaty with Hong Kong should not be applied as the security law means people could be transferred to mainland China.

The U.N. Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression said on Monday he was "extremely concerned" about the future of Hong Kong following the adoption of the new national security law.

Beijing's top representative office in Hong Kong has warned the pro-democracy opposition's primary elections at the weekend could violate a new national security law, exacerbating concerns over a crackdown on the former British colony's democracy movement.

Beijing's top representative office in Hong Kong has warned the pro-democracy opposition's primary elections at the weekend could violate a new national security law, exacerbating concerns over a crackdown on the former British colony's democracy movement. Preliminary results showed a group of young democrats, or "localists", performed strongly in the elections that drew more than 600,000 votes, reflecting a potential change of guard to a more radical grouping likely to rile authorities in Beijing. The primary polls are aimed at selecting democracy candidates who stand the best chance of success in September elections for the Legislative Council, Hong Kong's governing body. Final results are due later on Tuesday. Also read: Majority of US firms in Hong Kong concerned about security law Many observers see the election as a symbolic protest vote against the tough new security law that punishes what Beijing broadly defines as subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. "The goal of organiser Benny Tai and the opposition camp is to seize the ruling power of Hong Kong and ... carry out a Hong Kong version of 'color revolution'," a spokesman for the Liaison Office said in a statement just before midnight on Monday. Luo Huining, the head of the Liaison Office, will have oversight over the implementation of the contentious security law that will also allow mainland security agents to be officially based in China's freest city for the first time. Critics of the law fear it will crush wide-ranging freedoms promised to Hong Kong when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, while supporters say it will bring stability to the city after a year of sometimes violent anti-government protests. The law has drawn condemnation from Western nations, with the European Union saying on Monday it is working on measures to punish Beijing for the move, including a possible review of EU governments' extradition treaties' with the financial hub and offering more visas to its citizens. Also read: 500,000 Hong Kongers cast 'protest' vote against new security laws The law has also seen countries such as Britain and Canada caution citizens over an increased risk of arbitrary detention in Hong Kong and possible extradition to mainland China where they could face trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party. Australia last week said it was suspending its extradition treaty with Hong Kong due to the security law and was offering students, graduates and workers in Australia on temporary visas the opportunity to stay and work for an additional five years. Finland said on Monday the Nordic country's extradition treaty with Hong Kong should not be applied as the security law means people could be transferred to mainland China. The U.N. Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression said on Monday he was "extremely concerned" about the future of Hong Kong following the adoption of the new national security law.

Beijing's Hong Kong office warns pro-democracy poll could violate new security law

The European Union is all set to veil the new countermeasures against China over the newly imposed national security law. Watch report

EU vs China over Security law: EU mulling scholarships for HK students

China has warned pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong for the recently conducted primary elections. China said that it could constitute a violation of the security law. Watch report.

China warns Hong Kong activists: Primary poll violates new security law

China warns Hong Kong activists over violation of Security Law: Concerned over support of parties

A majority of U.S. companies in Hong Kong surveyed by the American Chamber of Commerce (Amcham) are concerned about the sweeping new national security law in the global financial hub, with a third looking to move assets or business longer-term.

The legislation, which punishes secession subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison, has further strained relations between the United States and China.

The Amcham survey, published on Monday and to which 183 or 15% of its members responded on July 6-9, showed 36.6% of respondents were "somewhat" concerned and 51% were "extremely concerned" about the legislation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/500000-hong-kongers-cast-protest-vote-against-new-security-laws-312766" hreflang="en">500,000 Hong Kongers cast 'protest' vote against new security laws</a>

More than two-thirds of the respondents were more concerned than a month ago, when the full details of the law, which came into force just before the anniversary of the former British colony's return to Chinese rule on July 1, 1997, were unveiled.

The legislation, which sees a Chinese intelligence agency openly operating in the city for the first time and gives police and mainland agents broad powers beyond the scrutiny of courts, raises a broad spectrum of worries for U.S. companies.

Some 65% were concerned about the "ambiguity in its scope and enforcement" and roughly 61% were concerned about the independence of Hong Kong's judicial system.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/hong-kong-opposition-kicks-off-primary-elections-under-shadow-of-security-law-312731" hreflang="en">Hong Kong opposition kicks off primary elections under shadow of security law</a>

About half were concerned about the city's status as a global finance centre and the erosion of the high degree of autonomy it was promised 23 years ago.

Other major concerns cited were data security, talent drain and retaliatory measures by other governments. The prospect of extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party, was considered a "game changer" by about 46%, with 17% saying it wasn't.

About 49% said the law would have a negative impact on their business, while some 13% said it would have a positive impact. Some 30% considered moving capital, assets or business out of Hong Kong in the medium-to-long term, while 5% said they consider doing so in the short-term.

More than half of the respondents said they felt less safe about living and working in Hong Kong. Also about half said they personally considered leaving the city.

A majority of U.S. companies in Hong Kong surveyed by the American Chamber of Commerce (Amcham) are concerned about the sweeping new national security law in the global financial hub, with a third looking to move assets or business longer-term.

A majority of U.S. companies in Hong Kong surveyed by the American Chamber of Commerce (Amcham) are concerned about the sweeping new national security law in the global financial hub, with a third looking to move assets or business longer-term. The legislation, which punishes secession subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison, has further strained relations between the United States and China. The Amcham survey, published on Monday and to which 183 or 15% of its members responded on July 6-9, showed 36.6% of respondents were "somewhat" concerned and 51% were "extremely concerned" about the legislation. Also read: 500,000 Hong Kongers cast 'protest' vote against new security laws More than two-thirds of the respondents were more concerned than a month ago, when the full details of the law, which came into force just before the anniversary of the former British colony's return to Chinese rule on July 1, 1997, were unveiled. The legislation, which sees a Chinese intelligence agency openly operating in the city for the first time and gives police and mainland agents broad powers beyond the scrutiny of courts, raises a broad spectrum of worries for U.S. companies. Some 65% were concerned about the "ambiguity in its scope and enforcement" and roughly 61% were concerned about the independence of Hong Kong's judicial system. Also read: Hong Kong opposition kicks off primary elections under shadow of security law About half were concerned about the city's status as a global finance centre and the erosion of the high degree of autonomy it was promised 23 years ago. Other major concerns cited were data security, talent drain and retaliatory measures by other governments. The prospect of extraditions to mainland China, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party, was considered a "game changer" by about 46%, with 17% saying it wasn't. About 49% said the law would have a negative impact on their business, while some 13% said it would have a positive impact. Some 30% considered moving capital, assets or business out of Hong Kong in the medium-to-long term, while 5% said they consider doing so in the short-term. More than half of the respondents said they felt less safe about living and working in Hong Kong. Also about half said they personally considered leaving the city.

Majority of US firms in Hong Kong concerned about security law

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

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

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

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

Pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong held primary polls on Saturday to choose candidates for upcoming legislative elections despite warnings from government officials that it may be in breach of a new security law imposed by China.

Thousands queued in the intense summer heat at unofficial polling stations across the city hours after police raided an opinion pollster helping to conduct the vote.

"The more Hong Kong people were suppressed, the firmer Hong Kong people stand," democracy campaigner Benny Tai, a legal scholar and co-organiser of the primary, said as voting got underway at 250 polling stations.

Organisers said nearly 60,000 people had voted in the first three hours.

"Under the new national security law, no one knows how many pro-democracy candidates would be allowed to run in the upcoming LegCo election. They could possibly be disqualified by the government under the new law," a 34-year-old voter who gave her surname as Poon told AFP near a polling station in Tseung Kwan O distict.

"I treasure every chance we still have to vote for the candidate I like and I hope Hong Kong people can show the government that we won't bend our knees through the poll," she added.

On Thursday, constitutional and mainland affairs minister Erick Tsang warned that those "organising, planning and participating" in the primary might commit offences of succession, subversion and colluding with foreign forces, according to his interviews with a selected few pro-Beijing newspapers.

Beijing&nbsp;imposed the new law on Hong Kong last week targeting acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, in response to huge and often violent democracy protests that erupted last year.

'No tolerance for dissidents'&nbsp;

The law is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms and autonomy since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997.

Similar national security laws are used to crush dissent on the mainland and police in Hong Kong have already arrested people voicing certain political views now deemed illegal, such as advocating independence or greater autonomy.

Former lawmaker Au Nok-hin and co-organiser of the primary argued that Tsang's remarks were "ungrounded and without any legitimate reasons".

"The suppression (we) faced when organising the primary proves that our government have no tolerance for dissidents, to accept a society with diversity and democratic universal suffrage," Au told media.

Police late Friday night raided the office of Public Opinion Research Institute (PORI), a prominent opinion pollster that was helping the pro-democracy camp to conduct the primary.

Police claimed they were responding to a report that PORI computers had been hacked, resulting in an unlawful leak of personal information.

PORI president Robert Chung said officers copied computer files and he was given a "verbal promise" that they would not use information unrelated to the suspected leak.

The raid raised concerns over the primary but Chung reassured that the voting system was safe and its operation was legal and transparent.

"The primary election is a peaceful, rational and non-violent approach to express public opinion," he said.

Pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong held primary polls on Saturday to choose candidates for upcoming legislative elections despite warnings from government officials that it may be in breach of a new security law imposed by China.

Pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong held primary polls on Saturday to choose candidates for upcoming legislative elections despite warnings from government officials that it may be in breach of a new security law imposed by China. Thousands queued in the intense summer heat at unofficial polling stations across the city hours after police raided an opinion pollster helping to conduct the vote. "The more Hong Kong people were suppressed, the firmer Hong Kong people stand," democracy campaigner Benny Tai, a legal scholar and co-organiser of the primary, said as voting got underway at 250 polling stations. Organisers said nearly 60,000 people had voted in the first three hours. "Under the new national security law, no one knows how many pro-democracy candidates would be allowed to run in the upcoming LegCo election. They could possibly be disqualified by the government under the new law," a 34-year-old voter who gave her surname as Poon told AFP near a polling station in Tseung Kwan O distict. "I treasure every chance we still have to vote for the candidate I like and I hope Hong Kong people can show the government that we won't bend our knees through the poll," she added. On Thursday, constitutional and mainland affairs minister Erick Tsang warned that those "organising, planning and participating" in the primary might commit offences of succession, subversion and colluding with foreign forces, according to his interviews with a selected few pro-Beijing newspapers. Beijing imposed the new law on Hong Kong last week targeting acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, in response to huge and often violent democracy protests that erupted last year. 'No tolerance for dissidents' The law is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms and autonomy since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997. Similar national security laws are used to crush dissent on the mainland and police in Hong Kong have already arrested people voicing certain political views now deemed illegal, such as advocating independence or greater autonomy. Former lawmaker Au Nok-hin and co-organiser of the primary argued that Tsang's remarks were "ungrounded and without any legitimate reasons". "The suppression (we) faced when organising the primary proves that our government have no tolerance for dissidents, to accept a society with diversity and democratic universal suffrage," Au told media. Police late Friday night raided the office of Public Opinion Research Institute (PORI), a prominent opinion pollster that was helping the pro-democracy camp to conduct the primary. Police claimed they were responding to a report that PORI computers had been hacked, resulting in an unlawful leak of personal information. PORI president Robert Chung said officers copied computer files and he was given a "verbal promise" that they would not use information unrelated to the suspected leak. The raid raised concerns over the primary but Chung reassured that the voting system was safe and its operation was legal and transparent. "The primary election is a peaceful, rational and non-violent approach to express public opinion," he said.

Hong Kong democracts hold primary despite security law warning

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes.

As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching.

Out of the 42 new cases, 34 were locally transmitted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deplores-australian-safe-haven-offer-to-hong-kongers-311927">Also read:&nbsp;China deplores Australian safe haven offer to Hong Kongers</a>

The&nbsp;Education Secretary Kevin Yeung said the decision was taken after it was observed that some of the recent cases were of students and parents.

Schools all over the city had been closed since February. However, some schools had now started reopening.&nbsp;Many international schools are already on summer break.

The total number of coronavirus cases has now increased to&nbsp;1,366, including seven people who lost their lives to the novel virus.

The city has been observing protests against the new infamous security law implemented on the city by China, which has been criticised for suppressing democratic voices. The protests, too, may have added to the spread of the infection, some believe.

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes. As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching.

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes. As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching. Out of the 42 new cases, 34 were locally transmitted. Also read: China deplores Australian safe haven offer to Hong Kongers The Education Secretary Kevin Yeung said the decision was taken after it was observed that some of the recent cases were of students and parents. Schools all over the city had been closed since February. However, some schools had now started reopening. Many international schools are already on summer break. The total number of coronavirus cases has now increased to 1,366, including seven people who lost their lives to the novel virus. The city has been observing protests against the new infamous security law implemented on the city by China, which has been criticised for suppressing democratic voices. The protests, too, may have added to the spread of the infection, some believe.

Hong Kong to close schools amid rise in COVID-19 cases

From refusing to support the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement to maintaining silence when China decided to remove crosses from its Church - Pope Francis has never spoken a word against Beijing. At the latest, the Pope strayed away from his script to avoid mentioning Hong Kong. Is this the Pope's neutrality or politics?

Gravitas: Did the Pope turn his back on pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong?

Australia on Thursday offered protection for Hong Kongers living in the country in response to China's imposition of a national security law for the territory.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government would now suspend its extradition agreement with Hong Kong and would offer thousands of Hong Kongers in Australia on temporary visas a pathway to permanent residency.

His announcement came a day after China opened a new office in Hong Kong for its intelligence agents to oversee implementation of the law imposed last week targeting acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion.

He said the decisions were taken because the&nbsp;security law "constitutes a fundamental change of circumstances", adding that Beijing and Hong Kong authorities had been notified of the plans.

Morrison said about 10,000 Hong Kong citizens and residents in Australia on student or temporary work visas would be allowed to remain in the country for an additional five years regardless of the expiry date on their current visas.

Australia will also provide a five-year&nbsp;visa with a pathway to permanent&nbsp;residency for future Hong Kong&nbsp;applicants for temporary skilled&nbsp;visas, subject to meeting an updated&nbsp;skills list and appropriate marking.

The law is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms and autonomy since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997.

Shortly before Morrison's announcement, Australia's foreign ministry warned its citizens in Hong Kong of the risk of detention under the new security law, which it called "vaguely defined". It urged Australian nationals to "reconsider your need to remain in Hong Kong" if they have concerns about the new law.

In Thursday's notice, the ministry said the security law imposed on Hong Kong could be "interpreted broadly" and lead to Australians being transferred to mainland China for prosecution.

(with inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

Australia on Thursday offered protection for Hong Kongers living in the country in response to China's imposition of a national security law for the territory. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government would now suspend its extradition agreement with Hong Kong and would offer thousands of Hong Kongers in Australia on temporary visas a pathway to permanent residency.

Australia on Thursday offered protection for Hong Kongers living in the country in response to China's imposition of a national security law for the territory. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government would now suspend its extradition agreement with Hong Kong and would offer thousands of Hong Kongers in Australia on temporary visas a pathway to permanent residency. His announcement came a day after China opened a new office in Hong Kong for its intelligence agents to oversee implementation of the law imposed last week targeting acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion. He said the decisions were taken because the security law "constitutes a fundamental change of circumstances", adding that Beijing and Hong Kong authorities had been notified of the plans. Morrison said about 10,000 Hong Kong citizens and residents in Australia on student or temporary work visas would be allowed to remain in the country for an additional five years regardless of the expiry date on their current visas. Australia will also provide a five-year visa with a pathway to permanent residency for future Hong Kong applicants for temporary skilled visas, subject to meeting an updated skills list and appropriate marking. The law is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms and autonomy since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997. Shortly before Morrison's announcement, Australia's foreign ministry warned its citizens in Hong Kong of the risk of detention under the new security law, which it called "vaguely defined". It urged Australian nationals to "reconsider your need to remain in Hong Kong" if they have concerns about the new law. In Thursday's notice, the ministry said the security law imposed on Hong Kong could be "interpreted broadly" and lead to Australians being transferred to mainland China for prosecution. (with inputs from agencies)

Australia extends Hong Kongers' visas after security law imposed

Australia has suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong amid concerns over the new National Security Law imposed by China. Australia has also extended visas for HK citizens by 5 years. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Australia extends visas for Hong Kong, Slams China on 'Security Law'

China has shot back on Australia's offer of safe haven to Hong Kongers, condemning the announcement as violations of "fundamental principles of international relations".

Australia offered pathways to permanent residency for thousands of people from Hong Kong on Thursday in response to China's crackdown on dissent, drawing a furious reply from Beijing.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government was suspending its extradition agreement with the city and, in addition to extending the visas of 10,000 Hong Kongers already in the country, threw open the door to thousands more wanting to start a new life Down Under.

Morrison said the decisions were taken in response to China's imposition last week of a tough new security law in Hong Kong, which he said "constitutes a fundamental change of circumstances" for the semi-autonomous territory.

To this end, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian warned: "China... reserves the right to take further reactions, all consequences will be borne by Australia."

"Any attempts to suppress China will never succeed."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-extends-hong-kongers-visas-after-security-law-imposed-311827">Also read |&nbsp;Australia extends Hong Kongers' visas after security law imposed</a>

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said China's moves in Hong Kong were discussed earlier Thursday with Australia's so-called "Five Eyes" security partners -- New Zealand, the United States, Britain, and Canada.

The new law, which followed sometimes-violent pro-democracy protests, is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997 under an agreement designed to preserve its way of life for 50 years.

China has bristled at widespread global criticism of the law.

Beijing in recent months has imposed tariffs on some Australian imports and impeded trade in other key commodities in response to Australian steps to counter Chinese interference in the country.

China, Australia's biggest trade partner and a competitor for influence in the Pacific, was notably infuriated when Canberra led calls for a probe into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic.

New Zealand is also reviewing its relationship with Hong Kong because of the new law, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said Thursday, "including extradition arrangements, controls on exports of strategic goods, and travel advice".

Canada has also suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong, while the British government has offered more than three million Hong Kongers a broader path to citizenship.

China has shot back on Australia's offer of safe haven to Hong Kongers, condemning the announcement as violations of "fundamental principles of international relations".

China has shot back on Australia's offer of safe haven to Hong Kongers, condemning the announcement as violations of "fundamental principles of international relations". Australia offered pathways to permanent residency for thousands of people from Hong Kong on Thursday in response to China's crackdown on dissent, drawing a furious reply from Beijing. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government was suspending its extradition agreement with the city and, in addition to extending the visas of 10,000 Hong Kongers already in the country, threw open the door to thousands more wanting to start a new life Down Under. Morrison said the decisions were taken in response to China's imposition last week of a tough new security law in Hong Kong, which he said "constitutes a fundamental change of circumstances" for the semi-autonomous territory. To this end, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian warned: "China... reserves the right to take further reactions, all consequences will be borne by Australia." "Any attempts to suppress China will never succeed." Also read | Australia extends Hong Kongers' visas after security law imposed Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said China's moves in Hong Kong were discussed earlier Thursday with Australia's so-called "Five Eyes" security partners -- New Zealand, the United States, Britain, and Canada. The new law, which followed sometimes-violent pro-democracy protests, is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997 under an agreement designed to preserve its way of life for 50 years. China has bristled at widespread global criticism of the law. Beijing in recent months has imposed tariffs on some Australian imports and impeded trade in other key commodities in response to Australian steps to counter Chinese interference in the country. China, Australia's biggest trade partner and a competitor for influence in the Pacific, was notably infuriated when Canberra led calls for a probe into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic. New Zealand is also reviewing its relationship with Hong Kong because of the new law, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said Thursday, "including extradition arrangements, controls on exports of strategic goods, and travel advice". Canada has also suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong, while the British government has offered more than three million Hong Kongers a broader path to citizenship.

China deplores Australian safe haven offer to Hong Kongers

The legislation is the most sweeping change to the political landscape of Hong Kong since it was handed back to China by the UK in 1997.

Hong Kong transformed Hotel into National Security office

China on Wednesday opened a new office for its intelligence agents to operate openly in Hong Kong for the first time under a tough new security law. The officials have, to this end, transformed a hotel into the force's headquarters.

The said hotel overlooks the city's Victoria Park, a location that has hosted pro-democracy protests for years, including an annual vigil each June marking Beijing's deadly Tiananmen crackdown.

A plaque bearing the security agency's name was unveiled early Wednesday in front of Hong Kong government and police officials. A Chinese flag was unfurled on a pole erected outside the building while a plaque bearing the emblem of the People's Republic of China went up overnight, according to China's official Xinhua news agency.

City leader Carrie Lam -- a pro-Beijing appointee -- hailed the opening as "a historic moment" and said China's intelligence apparatus would be an "important partner" in helping to safeguard national security.&nbsp;

Beijing&nbsp;imposed a new security law on Hong Kong last week targetting acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion.&nbsp;The law is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms and autonomy since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997.

The content of the security law was kept secret until it was enacted last Tuesday, bypassing Hong Kong's legislature.

China has said it will have jurisdiction over the most serious cases, toppling the legal firewall that has existed between its party-controlled courts and Hong Kong's independent judiciary since the handover from Britain in 1997.

Not much is known about the new security office China has opened in Hong Kong beyond its top leadership. Last week Beijing appointed Zheng Yanxiong to head up the agency.&nbsp;

His two deputies were also named. The first is Li Jiangzhou, a veteran public security officer who has worked in the Liaison Office, the body that represents Beijing in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Little is publically known about the second deputy, Sun Qingye. He has been described as a senior official from China's intelligence agency.

China on Wednesday opened a new office for its intelligence agents to operate openly in Hong Kong for the first time under a tough new security law. The officials have, to this end, transformed a hotel into the force's headquarters.

China on Wednesday opened a new office for its intelligence agents to operate openly in Hong Kong for the first time under a tough new security law. The officials have, to this end, transformed a hotel into the force's headquarters. The said hotel overlooks the city's Victoria Park, a location that has hosted pro-democracy protests for years, including an annual vigil each June marking Beijing's deadly Tiananmen crackdown. A plaque bearing the security agency's name was unveiled early Wednesday in front of Hong Kong government and police officials. A Chinese flag was unfurled on a pole erected outside the building while a plaque bearing the emblem of the People's Republic of China went up overnight, according to China's official Xinhua news agency. City leader Carrie Lam -- a pro-Beijing appointee -- hailed the opening as "a historic moment" and said China's intelligence apparatus would be an "important partner" in helping to safeguard national security. Beijing imposed a new security law on Hong Kong last week targetting acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion. The law is the most radical change in Hong Kong's freedoms and autonomy since Britain handed the city back to China in 1997. The content of the security law was kept secret until it was enacted last Tuesday, bypassing Hong Kong's legislature. China has said it will have jurisdiction over the most serious cases, toppling the legal firewall that has existed between its party-controlled courts and Hong Kong's independent judiciary since the handover from Britain in 1997. Not much is known about the new security office China has opened in Hong Kong beyond its top leadership. Last week Beijing appointed Zheng Yanxiong to head up the agency. His two deputies were also named. The first is Li Jiangzhou, a veteran public security officer who has worked in the Liaison Office, the body that represents Beijing in Hong Kong. Little is publically known about the second deputy, Sun Qingye. He has been described as a senior official from China's intelligence agency.

China opens new Hong Kong security agency headquarters

The EU on Wednesday urged China to free hundreds of lawyers and rights activists, on the fifth anniversary of a major crackdown. 
 
As relations with Beijing become increasingly complex, Brussels pledged to highlight the "deteriorating situation of civil and political rights in China" including the case of a professor detained after criticising President Xi Jinping over the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
In a statement marking five years since the "709 crackdown" -- so named because it began on July 9, 2015 -- the EU said it expected China to investigate cases of arbitrary detention and mistreatment of prisoners.

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"The European Union also expects the Chinese authorities to immediately and unconditionally release, without any restrictions on their movement or work, all lawyers and legal activists imprisoned or persecuted by the authorities for their work before and since the '709 crackdown', such as Yu Wensheng, Li Yuhan and Ge Jueping," the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/european-union-to-allow-visitors-from-14-countries-citizens-from-us-china-brazil-barred-report-309535" hreflang="en">European Union to allow visitors from 14 countries; citizens from US, China, Brazil barred: Report</a> 
 
The United States on Tuesday called for the release of Xu Zhangrun, a law professor at Tsinghua University, one of China's top institutions, and one of the rare prominent figures to offer open critiques of Xi, who has clamped down hard on dissent. 
 
Last week the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that existing rights must be protected in Hong Kong after police made the first arrests there under China's new national security law.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The EU on Wednesday urged China to free hundreds of lawyers and rights activists, on the fifth anniversary of a major crackdown. As relations with Beijing become increasingly complex, Brussels pledged to highlight the "deteriorating situation of civil and political rights in China" including the case of a professor detained after criticising President Xi Jinping over the coronavirus pandemic.

The EU on Wednesday urged China to free hundreds of lawyers and rights activists, on the fifth anniversary of a major crackdown. As relations with Beijing become increasingly complex, Brussels pledged to highlight the "deteriorating situation of civil and political rights in China" including the case of a professor detained after criticising President Xi Jinping over the coronavirus pandemic. In a statement marking five years since the "709 crackdown" -- so named because it began on July 9, 2015 -- the EU said it expected China to investigate cases of arbitrary detention and mistreatment of prisoners. Also read: European Union bans Pakistan International Airlines from flying to Europe for six months "The European Union also expects the Chinese authorities to immediately and unconditionally release, without any restrictions on their movement or work, all lawyers and legal activists imprisoned or persecuted by the authorities for their work before and since the '709 crackdown', such as Yu Wensheng, Li Yuhan and Ge Jueping," the statement said. Also read: European Union to allow visitors from 14 countries; citizens from US, China, Brazil barred: Report The United States on Tuesday called for the release of Xu Zhangrun, a law professor at Tsinghua University, one of China's top institutions, and one of the rare prominent figures to offer open critiques of Xi, who has clamped down hard on dissent. Last week the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that existing rights must be protected in Hong Kong after police made the first arrests there under China's new national security law.

EU urges China to free activists on crackdown anniversary

Microsoft&nbsp;and Zoom on Tuesday joined other major internet firms that have stopped considering requests by Hong Kong's government for information on users in the wake of China's imposition of a sweeping new security law.

Microsoft&nbsp;and Zoom said they are pausing consideration of data requests by officials or police in Hong Kong, a precaution also taken by Facebook, Google and Twitter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-google-twitter-block-hong-kong-govt-from-accessing-user-data-311243" hreflang="en">Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessing user data</a>

"As we would with any new legislation, we are reviewing the new law to understand its implications,"&nbsp;Microsoft&nbsp;said.

"In the past, we've typically received only a relatively small number of requests from Hong Kong authorities, but we are pausing our responses to these requests as we conduct our review."

Zoom a video-conferencing platform that has boom during the pandemic, said it is monitoring developments in Hong Kong and looking for guidance from the US government.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/national-security-a-red-line-hong-kong-leader-says-311354" hreflang="en">National security a 'red line', Hong Kong leader says</a>

"Zoom supports the free and open exchange of thoughts and ideas," the company said. "We have paused processing any data requests from, and related to, Hong Kong SAR."

The pause at leading online social network Facebook and its popular messaging service WhatsApp will remain in place "pending further assessment" of the new national security law, and include "formal human rights due diligence and consultations with human rights experts," according to the Silicon Valley giant.

"We believe freedom of expression is a fundamental human right and support the right of people to express themselves without fear for their safety or other repercussions," the spokesman said.

Twitter and Google said that they too would not comply with information requests by Hong Kong authorities in the immediate future.

China last week imposed the security law on the city of around 7.5 million people, banning acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

The law stipulates that trials can be held behind closed doors without juries, with offenders subject to a maximum of a life sentence.

The legislation, which has sent a wave of fear through the territory, has criminalized dissenting opinions such as calls for independence or autonomy.

Microsoft and Zoom on Tuesday joined other major internet firms that have stopped considering requests by Hong Kong's government for information on users in the wake of China's imposition of a sweeping new security law.

Microsoft and Zoom on Tuesday joined other major internet firms that have stopped considering requests by Hong Kong's government for information on users in the wake of China's imposition of a sweeping new security law. Microsoft and Zoom said they are pausing consideration of data requests by officials or police in Hong Kong, a precaution also taken by Facebook, Google and Twitter. Also read: Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessing user data "As we would with any new legislation, we are reviewing the new law to understand its implications," Microsoft said. "In the past, we've typically received only a relatively small number of requests from Hong Kong authorities, but we are pausing our responses to these requests as we conduct our review." Zoom a video-conferencing platform that has boom during the pandemic, said it is monitoring developments in Hong Kong and looking for guidance from the US government. Also read: National security a 'red line', Hong Kong leader says "Zoom supports the free and open exchange of thoughts and ideas," the company said. "We have paused processing any data requests from, and related to, Hong Kong SAR." The pause at leading online social network Facebook and its popular messaging service WhatsApp will remain in place "pending further assessment" of the new national security law, and include "formal human rights due diligence and consultations with human rights experts," according to the Silicon Valley giant. "We believe freedom of expression is a fundamental human right and support the right of people to express themselves without fear for their safety or other repercussions," the spokesman said. Twitter and Google said that they too would not comply with information requests by Hong Kong authorities in the immediate future. China last week imposed the security law on the city of around 7.5 million people, banning acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. The law stipulates that trials can be held behind closed doors without juries, with offenders subject to a maximum of a life sentence. The legislation, which has sent a wave of fear through the territory, has criminalized dissenting opinions such as calls for independence or autonomy.

National security law: Now, Microsoft and Zoom pause requests for Hong Kong data

US tech giants face a reckoning over how Hong Kong's security law will reshape their businesses, with their suspension of processing government requests for user data a stop-gap measure as they weigh options, people close to the industry say.

While Hong Kong is not a significant market for firms such as Facebook, Google, and Twitter, they have used it as a perch to reach deep-pocketed advertisers in mainland China, where many of their services are blocked.

But the companies are now in the crosshairs of a national security law that gives China authority to demand that they turn over user data or censor content seen to violate the law - even when posted from abroad.

"These companies have to totally reassess the liability of having a presence in Hong Kong," Charles Mok, a legislator who represents the technology industry in Hong Kong, told Reuters.&nbsp;

If they refuse to cooperate with government requests, he said, authorities "could go after them and take them to court and fine them, or imprison their principals in Hong Kong".

Facebook, Google, and Twitter have suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong, they said on Monday, following China's imposition of the new national security law on the semi-autonomous city.

Facebook, which started operating in Hong Kong in 2010, last year opened a big new office in the city.

It sells more than $5 billion (roughly Rs. 37,510 crores) a year worth of ad space to Chinese businesses and government agencies looking to promote messages abroad, Reuters reported in January. That makes China Facebook's biggest country for revenue after the United States.

The US internet firms are no strangers to governments demands regarding content and user information, and generally say they are bound by local laws.

The companies have often used a technique known as "geo-blocking" to restrict content in a particular country without removing it altogether.

But the sweeping language of Hong Kong's new law could mean such measures won't be enough. Authorities will no longer need to get court orders before requesting assistance or information, analysts said.

Requests for data about overseas users would put the companies in an especially tough spot.

"It's a global law ... if they comply with national security law in Hong Kong then there is the problem that they may violate laws in other countries," said Francis Fong Po-kiu, honorary president of Hong Kong's Information Technology Federation.

Content question 
 
While the US social media services are blocked in mainland China, they have operated freely in Hong Kong.

Other US Internet platforms are also rich with content that is banned in mainland China and may now be judged illegal in Hong Kong.

US video streaming site Netflix, for example, carries Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower, a 2017 documentary on activist Joshua Wong whose books were removed from Hong Kong public libraries last week.

Ten Years, a 2015 film that has been criticised by Chinese state media for portraying a dystopian future Hong Kong under Chinese Communist Party control, is also available on its platform.

Netflix declined to comment.

Google's YouTube is a popular platform for critics of Beijing. New York-based fugitive tycoon Guo Wengui has regularly voiced support for Hong Kong protesters in his videos. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

None of these companies has yet said how they will handle requests from Hong Kong to block or remove content, and the risk of being caught in political crossfire looms large.

"The foreign content players have to rethink what they display in Hong Kong," said Duncan Clark, chairman at consultancy BDA China.

"The downside is very big if they get US senators on their backs for accommodating. Any move they make will be heavily scrutinised."

US tech giants face a reckoning over how Hong Kong's security law will reshape their businesses, with their suspension of processing government requests for user data a stop-gap measure as they weigh options, people close to the industry say.

US tech giants face a reckoning over how Hong Kong's security law will reshape their businesses, with their suspension of processing government requests for user data a stop-gap measure as they weigh options, people close to the industry say. While Hong Kong is not a significant market for firms such as Facebook, Google, and Twitter, they have used it as a perch to reach deep-pocketed advertisers in mainland China, where many of their services are blocked. But the companies are now in the crosshairs of a national security law that gives China authority to demand that they turn over user data or censor content seen to violate the law - even when posted from abroad. "These companies have to totally reassess the liability of having a presence in Hong Kong," Charles Mok, a legislator who represents the technology industry in Hong Kong, told Reuters. If they refuse to cooperate with government requests, he said, authorities "could go after them and take them to court and fine them, or imprison their principals in Hong Kong". Facebook, Google, and Twitter have suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong, they said on Monday, following China's imposition of the new national security law on the semi-autonomous city. Facebook, which started operating in Hong Kong in 2010, last year opened a big new office in the city. It sells more than $5 billion (roughly Rs. 37,510 crores) a year worth of ad space to Chinese businesses and government agencies looking to promote messages abroad, Reuters reported in January. That makes China Facebook's biggest country for revenue after the United States. The US internet firms are no strangers to governments demands regarding content and user information, and generally say they are bound by local laws. The companies have often used a technique known as "geo-blocking" to restrict content in a particular country without removing it altogether. But the sweeping language of Hong Kong's new law could mean such measures won't be enough. Authorities will no longer need to get court orders before requesting assistance or information, analysts said. Requests for data about overseas users would put the companies in an especially tough spot. "It's a global law ... if they comply with national security law in Hong Kong then there is the problem that they may violate laws in other countries," said Francis Fong Po-kiu, honorary president of Hong Kong's Information Technology Federation. Content question While the US social media services are blocked in mainland China, they have operated freely in Hong Kong. Other US Internet platforms are also rich with content that is banned in mainland China and may now be judged illegal in Hong Kong. US video streaming site Netflix, for example, carries Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower, a 2017 documentary on activist Joshua Wong whose books were removed from Hong Kong public libraries last week. Ten Years, a 2015 film that has been criticised by Chinese state media for portraying a dystopian future Hong Kong under Chinese Communist Party control, is also available on its platform. Netflix declined to comment. Google's YouTube is a popular platform for critics of Beijing. New York-based fugitive tycoon Guo Wengui has regularly voiced support for Hong Kong protesters in his videos. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. None of these companies has yet said how they will handle requests from Hong Kong to block or remove content, and the risk of being caught in political crossfire looms large. "The foreign content players have to rethink what they display in Hong Kong," said Duncan Clark, chairman at consultancy BDA China. "The downside is very big if they get US senators on their backs for accommodating. Any move they make will be heavily scrutinised."

US tech giants face hard choices under Hong Kong's new security law

<ul>
	<li>The National Security law formalizes the changes that have been taking place in Hong Kong for over the past year. Critics of the Chinese government fear that they will be prosecuted under the new draconian law. Further, Article 38 of the National Security law also applies to offences committed outside of Hong Kong by non-residents of Hong Kong and this includes foreign nationals.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Opposition members and protestors are frantically deleting their posts, tweets and other digital traces online due to the fear of prosecution from the Chinese government.</li>
	<li>The US House of Representatives has approved new Hong Kong related sanctions to penalize banks who do business with Chinese officials.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

End of Democracy

There is a new reality facing Hong Kong today. The Chinese Communist Party passed the controversial National Security Law amidst the darkness of midnight.&nbsp;

According to the treaty between the Chinese and the British government, people of Hong Kong were set to enjoy autonomy, fundamental rights and the two-system governance until the year 2047. Critics now fear that the government will use the new law to silence dissent and prosecute any voices that criticize the Chinese government. Due to this well-founded fear various opposition leaders, members and protestors are frantically deleting their posts, tweets and other digital traces that can be later used as evidence against them in the court of law. Even foreigners can be prosecuted under this law and various foreigners are showing their fear and discontent against the new laws online.&nbsp;

This sad affair for Hong Kong is a wake-up call to all the democracy-loving free nations of the world that the Chinese Communist Party is expanding its imperialistic behaviour towards its neighbours subverting international laws and treaties.

The future of Hong Kong lies in disarray. The financial capital of the world is now fighting for its freedom against the communist regime during the time the whole world is busy with its own domestic problems. Article 38 of the National Security Law also applies to offences committed outside of Hong Kong by non-residents of Hong Kong and this includes foreign nationals.&nbsp;

The Draconian Law - Silencing Dissent&nbsp;

The Hong Kong officials argue that the law would be beneficial for the long term stability of the government, but critics argue that the draconian law will be used to silence the voice of people with punishments as severe as life imprisonment. Carrie Lam, Hong Kong Chief Executive, said that “the purpose of this law is not only to punish but to deter people from committing serious offences such as succession, subverting the state power and terrorist activities.

The reality is that Hong Kong is legally gone, but the spirit and the strength of the people fighting for democracy remain with people still taking it to the streets to fight against the government. Boris Jonson criticized the move of the Chinese government as a “clear and serious” violation of its treaty with Britain.&nbsp;

The British parliament has introduced a bespoke five-year visa plan with the option to apply for citizenship afterwards for as many as 3 million Hong Kong citizens with British national overseas status. There is still hope for young Hong Kongers who will likely take this route, but it is going to lead to a lot of brain drain and corporate organizations shifting their locations as the special status provided to Hong Kong is removed by the US administration. China has threatened the British government and said it will take countermeasures against the UK should it grant residency to Hongkongers fleeing a harsh new national security law.&nbsp;

“The Chilling Effect” - Is Hong Kong Important for China in 2020?&nbsp;

Hong Kong has enjoyed success as a major financial hub next to the likes of New York and London. A major trading partner of the US. International businesses and organizations trust Hong Kong’s legal system and trusting the Chinese legal system is risky due to its authoritarian legal system and strict capital controls.

In the 1990s, Hong Kong’s economy accounted for 25 per cent of China’s GDP but now Hong Kong accounts only for 2.7 per cent of China’s GDP due to the emergence of powerhouses such as Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Chongqing, Harbin and Chengdu which has pushed China’s GDP to &nbsp;$14.1 trillion in 2019. Simply speaking, China does not care about Hong Kong anymore as Shenzhen, the metropolis outside Hong Kong has turned into a massive manufacturing powerhouse. The Communist party has little incentive to keep the people of Hong Kong happy and thus the Chinese government is going ahead with this calculated move. Hong Kong’s economy is stuttering, and the protests have paralyzed the economy giving rise to fear of capital flight from Hong Kong to Singapore and other safe havens in Asia.&nbsp;

Hong Kong consecutively ranked as the world's freest economy for 26 years since its inception in 1995. The political turmoil in Hong Kong is engulfing its economy and is refreshing worries over capital outflows from one of the major financial hubs. Due to the approval of the National Security Bill, there is a deep economic crisis facing Hong Kong that can result in capital flight in the long term.

Hong Kong still remains crucial for China, as Chinese companies prefer Hong Kong as its destination for borrowing and raising capital. Access to the global currency market through Hong Kong has allowed China to prop-up its national currency. According to the Bank for International Settlements, 30% of the average daily turnover of Yuan came from Hong Kong and due to this Mrs Carrie Lam, has proposed a plan to transform Hong Kong into a private wealth management hub and turn it into a prominent offshore renminbi centre. The government wants to promote greater liquidity and connect Hong Kong’s financial market with the Mainland’s financial markets.&nbsp;

The EU is Not Going to Help Hong Kong - It’s Strongest Ally Left

The UK government believes that the new law is a flagrant breach of the agreement between the two countries and honouring its commitment towards the people of Hong Kong, the UK government is granting citizenship to 3 million Hong Kongers through its 5-year visa plan. There has been a growing trend in Hong Kong for immigration over the past few years due to political unrest, the lending hand by the UK provides an incentive for professionals, young students, children and those seeking safer heavens to move overseas, in order to restore their way of life. Children born after 1997 without any link to their colonial past are choosing to stay and fight as they do not have dual citizenship.&nbsp;

The EU meanwhile has said that it is discussing with its international partners on a response, but there is not much that we can expect. There is not a lot of pressure coming from the EU, its members have released their predicted statements that denounce the actions of China and show their serious concern regarding the situation but with no indications of sanctions or strong actions whatsoever. The EU believes that the economic cost of creating a front on Hong Kong is going to be against their interests as the EU needs to save its cash-starved businesses and organisations. The matter of foreign policy falls within the purview of each member state of the EU and thus there are various vested interests linked to China and Chinese investments; not to mention that China remains EU’s global supply chain partner.&nbsp;

The strongest friend of Hong Kong, the UK is no longer part of the EU due to which the support for Hong Kong has diminished in Brussels. The EU has lost its most committed member when it comes to the faith of Hong Kong and finally, we have the coronavirus pandemic for which the EU council of ministers is prepaying a rescue fund and the last thing they want is an economic fight with China. Due to which the buck currently stops at money for the EU, even when it stands for the civil and political rights of the citizens of Hong Kong it cannot afford a cold war with China.

Hong Kongers and The Fight for Democracy&nbsp;

A million people marched the streets of Hong Kong last year against the extradition law being passed by the Chinese government. Afterwards, the city descended into chaos with months of violence between the police and the protestors. The Chinese government clamped down heavily on protestors and increased its mass surveillance efforts significantly to silence dissent.

"The law is a brutal, sweeping crackdown against the people of Hong Kong, intended to destroy the freedoms they were promised," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.&nbsp;

The international community needs to wake up and take cognizance of the imperialistic intentions of the Chinese government, a nation-state that enjoys the status as a permanent member of the security council. Even though China has developed and pulled millions of people out of poverty, the ideology that fuels the government is based on the same principles of Lenin and Mao Zedong, who are responsible for killing millions of innocent people under the guise of collective farming and labour. 
 
&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The National Security law formalizes the changes that have been taking place in Hong Kong for over the past year. Critics of the Chinese government fear that they will be prosecuted under the new draconian law.

The National Security law formalizes the changes that have been taking place in Hong Kong for over the past year. Critics of the Chinese government fear that they will be prosecuted under the new draconian law. Further, Article 38 of the National Security law also applies to offences committed outside of Hong Kong by non-residents of Hong Kong and this includes foreign nationals. Opposition members and protestors are frantically deleting their posts, tweets and other digital traces online due to the fear of prosecution from the Chinese government. The US House of Representatives has approved new Hong Kong related sanctions to penalize banks who do business with Chinese officials. End of Democracy There is a new reality facing Hong Kong today. The Chinese Communist Party passed the controversial National Security Law amidst the darkness of midnight. According to the treaty between the Chinese and the British government, people of Hong Kong were set to enjoy autonomy, fundamental rights and the two-system governance until the year 2047. Critics now fear that the government will use the new law to silence dissent and prosecute any voices that criticize the Chinese government. Due to this well-founded fear various opposition leaders, members and protestors are frantically deleting their posts, tweets and other digital traces that can be later used as evidence against them in the court of law. Even foreigners can be prosecuted under this law and various foreigners are showing their fear and discontent against the new laws online. This sad affair for Hong Kong is a wake-up call to all the democracy-loving free nations of the world that the Chinese Communist Party is expanding its imperialistic behaviour towards its neighbours subverting international laws and treaties. The future of Hong Kong lies in disarray. The financial capital of the world is now fighting for its freedom against the communist regime during the time the whole world is busy with its own domestic problems. Article 38 of the National Security Law also applies to offences committed outside of Hong Kong by non-residents of Hong Kong and this includes foreign nationals. The Draconian Law - Silencing Dissent The Hong Kong officials argue that the law would be beneficial for the long term stability of the government, but critics argue that the draconian law will be used to silence the voice of people with punishments as severe as life imprisonment. Carrie Lam, Hong Kong Chief Executive, said that “the purpose of this law is not only to punish but to deter people from committing serious offences such as succession, subverting the state power and terrorist activities. The reality is that Hong Kong is legally gone, but the spirit and the strength of the people fighting for democracy remain with people still taking it to the streets to fight against the government. Boris Jonson criticized the move of the Chinese government as a “clear and serious” violation of its treaty with Britain. The British parliament has introduced a bespoke five-year visa plan with the option to apply for citizenship afterwards for as many as 3 million Hong Kong citizens with British national overseas status. There is still hope for young Hong Kongers who will likely take this route, but it is going to lead to a lot of brain drain and corporate organizations shifting their locations as the special status provided to Hong Kong is removed by the US administration. China has threatened the British government and said it will take countermeasures against the UK should it grant residency to Hongkongers fleeing a harsh new national security law. “The Chilling Effect” - Is Hong Kong Important for China in 2020? Hong Kong has enjoyed success as a major financial hub next to the likes of New York and London. A major trading partner of the US. International businesses and organizations trust Hong Kong’s legal system and trusting the Chinese legal system is risky due to its authoritarian legal system and strict capital controls. In the 1990s, Hong Kong’s economy accounted for 25 per cent of China’s GDP but now Hong Kong accounts only for 2.7 per cent of China’s GDP due to the emergence of powerhouses such as Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Chongqing, Harbin and Chengdu which has pushed China’s GDP to $14.1 trillion in 2019. Simply speaking, China does not care about Hong Kong anymore as Shenzhen, the metropolis outside Hong Kong has turned into a massive manufacturing powerhouse. The Communist party has little incentive to keep the people of Hong Kong happy and thus the Chinese government is going ahead with this calculated move. Hong Kong’s economy is stuttering, and the protests have paralyzed the economy giving rise to fear of capital flight from Hong Kong to Singapore and other safe havens in Asia. Hong Kong consecutively ranked as the world's freest economy for 26 years since its inception in 1995. The political turmoil in Hong Kong is engulfing its economy and is refreshing worries over capital outflows from one of the major financial hubs. Due to the approval of the National Security Bill, there is a deep economic crisis facing Hong Kong that can result in capital flight in the long term. Hong Kong still remains crucial for China, as Chinese companies prefer Hong Kong as its destination for borrowing and raising capital. Access to the global currency market through Hong Kong has allowed China to prop-up its national currency. According to the Bank for International Settlements, 30% of the average daily turnover of Yuan came from Hong Kong and due to this Mrs Carrie Lam, has proposed a plan to transform Hong Kong into a private wealth management hub and turn it into a prominent offshore renminbi centre. The government wants to promote greater liquidity and connect Hong Kong’s financial market with the Mainland’s financial markets. The EU is Not Going to Help Hong Kong - It’s Strongest Ally Left The UK government believes that the new law is a flagrant breach of the agreement between the two countries and honouring its commitment towards the people of Hong Kong, the UK government is granting citizenship to 3 million Hong Kongers through its 5-year visa plan. There has been a growing trend in Hong Kong for immigration over the past few years due to political unrest, the lending hand by the UK provides an incentive for professionals, young students, children and those seeking safer heavens to move overseas, in order to restore their way of life. Children born after 1997 without any link to their colonial past are choosing to stay and fight as they do not have dual citizenship. The EU meanwhile has said that it is discussing with its international partners on a response, but there is not much that we can expect. There is not a lot of pressure coming from the EU, its members have released their predicted statements that denounce the actions of China and show their serious concern regarding the situation but with no indications of sanctions or strong actions whatsoever. The EU believes that the economic cost of creating a front on Hong Kong is going to be against their interests as the EU needs to save its cash-starved businesses and organisations. The matter of foreign policy falls within the purview of each member state of the EU and thus there are various vested interests linked to China and Chinese investments; not to mention that China remains EU’s global supply chain partner. The strongest friend of Hong Kong, the UK is no longer part of the EU due to which the support for Hong Kong has diminished in Brussels. The EU has lost its most committed member when it comes to the faith of Hong Kong and finally, we have the coronavirus pandemic for which the EU council of ministers is prepaying a rescue fund and the last thing they want is an economic fight with China. Due to which the buck currently stops at money for the EU, even when it stands for the civil and political rights of the citizens of Hong Kong it cannot afford a cold war with China. Hong Kongers and The Fight for Democracy A million people marched the streets of Hong Kong last year against the extradition law being passed by the Chinese government. Afterwards, the city descended into chaos with months of violence between the police and the protestors. The Chinese government clamped down heavily on protestors and increased its mass surveillance efforts significantly to silence dissent. "The law is a brutal, sweeping crackdown against the people of Hong Kong, intended to destroy the freedoms they were promised," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The international community needs to wake up and take cognizance of the imperialistic intentions of the Chinese government, a nation-state that enjoys the status as a permanent member of the security council. Even though China has developed and pulled millions of people out of poverty, the ideology that fuels the government is based on the same principles of Lenin and Mao Zedong, who are responsible for killing millions of innocent people under the guise of collective farming and labour. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

National Security Law and end of Hong Kong as we know it

More retail property in Hong Kong will be left vacant in the second half of the year as large global fashion and luxury brands consolidate their stores or leave the city, property consultancy CBRE said on Wednesday.

The property consultancy said overall vacancy rate in the tier-1 streets climbed to 13.5% in the first six months, a four-year high, while high street rents dropped 15.2%. It expected rents to decline another 5-10% in the rest of the year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/national-security-law-and-end-of-hong-kong-as-we-know-it-311585" hreflang="en">National Security Law and end of Hong Kong as we know It</a>

Hong Kong's retail sales slumped 32.8% in may from a year earlier, falling for the 16th consecutive month as the coronavirus pandemic and anti-government protests slammed the brakes on tourism and spending in the city.

British high street retailer Topshop is closing its last shop in the financial city, the South China Morning Post reported on Wednesday. U.S. fashion brands Victoria's Secret and Gap have also decided to close respectively their only shop and most of the shops in the last few weeks.

"Hong Kong is still a strategic location for the big international groups...when rents fall low and tourists are back in the future, they wouldn't mind coming back to develop in Hong Kong again," said Lawrence Wan, a senior director of CBRE Hong Kong.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-opens-new-hong-kong-security-agency-headquarters-311499" hreflang="en">China opens new Hong Kong security agency headquarters</a>

The closures were mainly due to broader external economic reasons back home for the international brands, Wan said, adding that falling rents have on the other hand attracted some new businesses and expansion in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Food and beverage companies are more active in the retail space, Wan said, citing Japanese restaurant brands Don Don Donki and Sushiro as examples of new entries in the past year.

More retail property in Hong Kong will be left vacant in the second half of the year as large global fashion and luxury brands consolidate their stores or leave the city, property consultancy CBRE said on Wednesday.

More retail property in Hong Kong will be left vacant in the second half of the year as large global fashion and luxury brands consolidate their stores or leave the city, property consultancy CBRE said on Wednesday. The property consultancy said overall vacancy rate in the tier-1 streets climbed to 13.5% in the first six months, a four-year high, while high street rents dropped 15.2%. It expected rents to decline another 5-10% in the rest of the year. Also read: National Security Law and end of Hong Kong as we know It Hong Kong's retail sales slumped 32.8% in may from a year earlier, falling for the 16th consecutive month as the coronavirus pandemic and anti-government protests slammed the brakes on tourism and spending in the city. British high street retailer Topshop is closing its last shop in the financial city, the South China Morning Post reported on Wednesday. U.S. fashion brands Victoria's Secret and Gap have also decided to close respectively their only shop and most of the shops in the last few weeks. "Hong Kong is still a strategic location for the big international groups...when rents fall low and tourists are back in the future, they wouldn't mind coming back to develop in Hong Kong again," said Lawrence Wan, a senior director of CBRE Hong Kong. Also read: China opens new Hong Kong security agency headquarters The closures were mainly due to broader external economic reasons back home for the international brands, Wan said, adding that falling rents have on the other hand attracted some new businesses and expansion in Hong Kong. Food and beverage companies are more active in the retail space, Wan said, citing Japanese restaurant brands Don Don Donki and Sushiro as examples of new entries in the past year.

Hong Kong retail vacancies seen rising as global brands downsize

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

Gravitas: How China plans to choke Hong Kong

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

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

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

Hong Kong's national security law does not spell "doom and gloom", its leader said on Tuesday, as she tried to calm unease over legislation that critics say could quash freedoms that have underpinned the city's success as a financial hub.

In an illustration of worries about the law, the video app TikTok said it was preparing to leave the Hong Kong market, and other tech firms said they have suspended processing Hong Kong government requests for user data.

The sweeping legislation that Beijing imposed on the former British colony punishes what China defines as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/why-hong-kong-will-remain-an-international-financial-centre-despite-new-security-law-311344" hreflang="en">Why Hong Kong will remain an international financial centre, despite new security law</a>

It came into force at the same time it was made public, just before midnight last Tuesday, with police arresting more than 300 people in protests the next day - about 10 of them, including a 15-year-old, for suspected violations of it.

"Surely, this is not doom and gloom for Hong Kong," the city's Beijing-backed leader, Carrie Lam, told a weekly news conference.

"I'm sure, with the passage of time ... confidence will grow in 'one country, two systems' and in Hong Kong's future."

The legislation has been criticised by democracy activists and Western governments, for undermining freedoms guaranteed under a "one country, two systems" formula agreed when Hong Kong return to Chinese rule in 1997.

Both Hong Kong and Chinese officials have said the law, which gives mainland security agencies an enforcement presence in the city for the first time, was vital to plug holes in national security defences, exposed by the city’s failure to pass such legislation itself as required under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law.

Lam said cases involving the new mainland agents would be "rare", but nevertheless, national security was a "red line" that should not be crossed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/were-next-hong-kong-security-law-sends-chills-through-taiwan-311335" hreflang="en">'We're next': Hong Kong security law sends chills through Taiwan</a>

The legislation was not harsh when compared with that of other countries, she said.

"It is a rather mild law. Its scope is not as broad as that in other countries and even China," she said.

Critics say the aim of the law is to stamp out a pro-democracy movement that brought months of protests, at times violent, to the city last year.

Late on Monday, Hong Kong released details of how the law would be implemented, outlining police powers over the internet, including the ability to ask publishers to remove information deemed a threat to national security.

Internet firms and their staff face fines and up to one year in jail if they do not comply and police can seize their equipment. The companies are also expected to provide identification records and decryption assistance.

But Lam said she had not noticed widespread fears and the law would restore the city's status as one of the safest in the world after the violent pro-democracy protests last year.&nbsp;

'TIME AND FACTS'&nbsp;

Despite her assurances, the law has had a chilling effect.

"If Hong Kong police and the government do not get information from Facebook, they may have other means," said 45-year-old playwright Yan Pat-To.&nbsp;

"The fear has spread over freedom of expression."&nbsp;

Shortly after the law came into force, pro-democracy activists such as Joshua Wong disbanded their organisations while others have left.

Many shops have removed protest-related products and decorations and public libraries have removed some books seen as supportive of the democracy movement. Canada has suspended an extradition treaty with Hong Kong.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/facebook-google-twitter-block-hong-kong-govt-from-accessessing-user-data-311243" hreflang="en">Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessessing user data</a>

TikTok, a video app owned by China-based ByteDance said it would exit the Hong Kong market within days.&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said late on Monday the United States was "certainly looking at" banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok, amid concern they were not in a position to decline Chinese government requests.

TikTok, which has sought to emphasise its independence from China, has been banned in India.

Facebook Inc, which also owns WhatsApp and Instagram, Google Inc and Twitter Inc suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong.

The final power of interpretation of the law lies with authorities in mainland China, where human rights groups have reported arbitrary detentions and disappearances. China has been clamping down on dissent and tightening censorship.

China's official Procuratorial Daily paper said authorities had launched a special taskforce to ramp up political policing to maintain social stability.&nbsp;

The news came on the day that Xu Zhangrun, a Beijing law professor who has been an outspoken critic of the ruling Communist Party and President Xi Jinping, was taken away by authorities.

Lam, asked about media freedom, said if reporters could guarantee they would not breach the new law, she could guarantee they would be allowed to report freely.

"Ultimately, time and facts will tell that this law will not undermine human rights and freedoms," she said.

Hong Kong's national security law does not spell "doom and gloom", its leader said on Tuesday, as she tried to calm unease over legislation that critics say could quash freedoms that have underpinned the city's success as a financial hub.

Hong Kong's national security law does not spell "doom and gloom", its leader said on Tuesday, as she tried to calm unease over legislation that critics say could quash freedoms that have underpinned the city's success as a financial hub. In an illustration of worries about the law, the video app TikTok said it was preparing to leave the Hong Kong market, and other tech firms said they have suspended processing Hong Kong government requests for user data. The sweeping legislation that Beijing imposed on the former British colony punishes what China defines as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, with up to life in prison. Also read: Why Hong Kong will remain an international financial centre, despite new security law It came into force at the same time it was made public, just before midnight last Tuesday, with police arresting more than 300 people in protests the next day - about 10 of them, including a 15-year-old, for suspected violations of it. "Surely, this is not doom and gloom for Hong Kong," the city's Beijing-backed leader, Carrie Lam, told a weekly news conference. "I'm sure, with the passage of time ... confidence will grow in 'one country, two systems' and in Hong Kong's future." The legislation has been criticised by democracy activists and Western governments, for undermining freedoms guaranteed under a "one country, two systems" formula agreed when Hong Kong return to Chinese rule in 1997. Both Hong Kong and Chinese officials have said the law, which gives mainland security agencies an enforcement presence in the city for the first time, was vital to plug holes in national security defences, exposed by the city’s failure to pass such legislation itself as required under its mini-constitution, the Basic Law. Lam said cases involving the new mainland agents would be "rare", but nevertheless, national security was a "red line" that should not be crossed. Also read: 'We're next': Hong Kong security law sends chills through Taiwan The legislation was not harsh when compared with that of other countries, she said. "It is a rather mild law. Its scope is not as broad as that in other countries and even China," she said. Critics say the aim of the law is to stamp out a pro-democracy movement that brought months of protests, at times violent, to the city last year. Late on Monday, Hong Kong released details of how the law would be implemented, outlining police powers over the internet, including the ability to ask publishers to remove information deemed a threat to national security. Internet firms and their staff face fines and up to one year in jail if they do not comply and police can seize their equipment. The companies are also expected to provide identification records and decryption assistance. But Lam said she had not noticed widespread fears and the law would restore the city's status as one of the safest in the world after the violent pro-democracy protests last year. 'TIME AND FACTS' Despite her assurances, the law has had a chilling effect. "If Hong Kong police and the government do not get information from Facebook, they may have other means," said 45-year-old playwright Yan Pat-To. "The fear has spread over freedom of expression." Shortly after the law came into force, pro-democracy activists such as Joshua Wong disbanded their organisations while others have left. Many shops have removed protest-related products and decorations and public libraries have removed some books seen as supportive of the democracy movement. Canada has suspended an extradition treaty with Hong Kong. Also read: Facebook, Google, Twitter block Hong Kong govt from accessessing user data TikTok, a video app owned by China-based ByteDance said it would exit the Hong Kong market within days. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said late on Monday the United States was "certainly looking at" banning Chinese social media apps, including TikTok, amid concern they were not in a position to decline Chinese government requests. TikTok, which has sought to emphasise its independence from China, has been banned in India. Facebook Inc, which also owns WhatsApp and Instagram, Google Inc and Twitter Inc suspended processing government requests for user data in Hong Kong. The final power of interpretation of the law lies with authorities in mainland China, where human rights groups have reported arbitrary detentions and disappearances. China has been clamping down on dissent and tightening censorship. China's official Procuratorial Daily paper said authorities had launched a special taskforce to ramp up political policing to maintain social stability. The news came on the day that Xu Zhangrun, a Beijing law professor who has been an outspoken critic of the ruling Communist Party and President Xi Jinping, was taken away by authorities. Lam, asked about media freedom, said if reporters could guarantee they would not breach the new law, she could guarantee they would be allowed to report freely. "Ultimately, time and facts will tell that this law will not undermine human rights and freedoms," she said.

National security a 'red line', Hong Kong leader says

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