Hong Kong to ‘vigorously implement’ Beijing’s new security law – Times of Oman

Hong Kong to ‘vigorously implement’ Beijing’s new security law – Times of Oman

Hong Kong's government said Tuesday it will "vigorously implement" a controversial new national security law imposed on the semi-autonomous Chinese territory by Beijing last week.



The new legislation targets what authorities in mainland China define as secession, subversion,terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. Those violating the law could face up to life in prison.



"I forewarn those radicals not to attempt to violate this law, or cross the red line, because theconsequences of breaching this law are very serious," Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam told a press conference Tuesday.



The new law has drawn international condemnation for jeopardizing Hong Kong's civil liberties enshrined under the "one country, two systems" framework, including freedom of speech and assembly.



There is widespread concern that crackdowns on public dissent and free speech, similar to what is seen in mainland China, will soon be carried out in Hong Kong under the law.

Not 'gloom and doom'



Lam, who leads the city's chief executive that is packed with Beijing loyalists, tried to assuage the gloomy predictions for Hong Kong's future.

"Surely, this is not doom and gloom for Hong Kong," Lam said, adding that as the "facts" become clear over time, "confidence will grow in