Hong Kong's leader said Tuesday that national security legislation proposed by China's legislature will not threaten the semi-autonomous territory's civil rights, despite widespread criticism of the move as an encroachment on freedom of speech and assembly.
The city's chief executive, Carrie Lam, told reporters that there was "no need for us to worry" over the move being considered by China's ceremonial National People's Congress.
The move by China to pass the legislation signals the central government's determination to take greater control of Hong Kong after months of pro-democracy protests last year. Beijing has appointed new representatives in Hong Kong who follow the hard line laid down by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is also the head of the ruling Communist Party.
She repeated claims that the law would only target "a minority," citing concerns about terrorism and subversion.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Hong Kong Police Fire Tear Gas At Thousands Of Protesters Opposing New China LawDemonstrators took to the streets on Sunday to protest a controversial national security law that would ban secessionist and subversive activity against Beijing
Read more »
China racing to impose new law criminalizing Hong Kong protests as demonstrations eruptPolice on Sunday arresting more than 180 protesters with a show of force that bloodied the streets and sprayed bystanders with pepper spray and tear gas
Read more »
China’s crackdown on Hong Kong will end its status as a haven for human-rights groupsThose groups are contemplating whether they can continue to exist as China prepares a national security law for Hong Kong that will take aim at what Beijing deems ‘foreign interference’
Read more »
Hong Kong police fire tear gas as thousands protest security lawTo Communist Party leaders, calls for independence for the Chinese-ruled city are anathema, and the proposed new national security framework stresses Beijing’s intent 'to prevent, stop and punish’such acts
Read more »