Hong Kong Passes Tough Security Law

Hong Kong has passed a tough security law which authorities say is necessary for stability, but which critics fear will further erode civil liberties.
Article 23 targets new offences like external interference and insurrection, and penalties include life sentences which was fast-tracked through its final stage by the city’s pro-Beijing parliament in less than two weeks.
That law already criminalises secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces in Hong Kong.
But Hong Kong’s leader John Lee has said Article 23 is also necessary to guard against potential sabotage and undercurrents that try to create troubles, particularly ideas of an independent Hong Kong, hailing its passing as a historic moment Hong Kong people have been waiting for over 26 years.
Meanwhile, the China’s Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang earlier said swift enactment of the new legislation would protect core national interests and allow Hong Kong to focus on economic development.