Hong Kong: World political figures condemn China's security law plan
the plans, which he described as a"death knell" for the city's freedoms. The UK, Australia and Canada have also expressed their"deep concern".The statement was drafted by former Hong Kong Governor Christopher Patten and former British Foreign Secretary Malcolm Rifkind, and signed by 186 policy makers and politicians from 23 countries.
They include 17 members of the US Congress, among them Republican Senator Marco Rubio, who is acting chairman of the Intelligence Committee, and Senator Ted Cruz as well as Democratic Senator Bob Menendez, who is the most senior Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The US is currently considering whether to extend Hong Kong's preferential trading and investment privileges. President Trump has also weighed in, saying the US would react strongly if the law went through - without giving details.Hong Kong, a semi-autonomous region and an economic powerhouse, was required to introduce such a law after the handover from British control to Chinese rule in 1997.
Beijing may also fear September's elections to Hong Kong's legislature. If last year's success for pro-democracy parties in district elections is repeated, government bills could potentially be blocked.Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam, who is seen as part of the pro-Beijing political establishment, has pledged full support for the proposed law and said the city's freedoms would remain unchanged.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
New security laws for Hong Kong could cause 'potential significant rift' between UK and ChinaNew security laws for Hong Kong could cause a 'potentially significant rift' between the UK and China. Analysis from Sky's foreign affairs editor haynesdeborah 👇
Read more »
China claims Hong Kong national security law 'protects' city's freedomHong Kong's stock market slid by nearly six per cent after China said it would vote on a national security law bill that could ban people in the financial hub from inciting and participating in protests.
Read more »
UK has too much at stake to confront China over Hong KongFormer colonial power can seek to change China’s mind but is wary of enlisting in a trade war
Read more »
China claims Hong Kong national security law 'protects' city's freedomHong Kong's stock market slid by nearly six per cent after China said it would vote on a national security law bill that could ban people in the financial hub from inciting and participating in protests.
Read more »
Why China's new security law is causing fury in Hong KongUnveiled in full detail on Friday, the law is set to apply to both Hong Kong and Macau
Read more »
China claims Hong Kong national security law 'protects' city's freedomHong Kong's stock market slid by nearly six per cent after China said it would vote on a national security law bill that could ban people in the financial hub from inciting and participating in protests.
Read more »