Tensions simmer in Hong Kong as controversial anthem law back up for debate

Security has been tightened in Hong Kong as lawmakers resume a debate over a bill that would make disrespecting China's national anthem a criminal offence.

The new law is seen as China's plans to impose national security laws on Hong Kong, with the UK stepping up criticism of the move.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson reiterated that Britain will not walk away from the people of Hong Kong and stressed that the national security law contradicts the 1984 accord.

He also repeated Britain's pledge to give British National Overseas passport-holders in Hong Kong a path to citizenship.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam accused foreign governments on Tuesday of "double standards" and refused to back down.

It comes as the annual vigil to commemorate the bloody 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators in Beijing has been cancelled. 

 

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • Nights on Dubai Eye 103.8

    11:00pm - 6:00am

    Dubai Eye complements the conversation with the music you love from the eighties, nineties and newer.

  • The Business Breakfast

    6:00am - 10:00am

    The Business Breakfast is the day’s must listen for the UAE’s business leaders, and those who aspire to be.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Flying Taxis

    It sounds like an episode of The Jetsons, but the sight of flying taxis whizzing around our cities could be much closer than you think.

  • Tough penalties for deliberate tax evasion

    The UAE has said that tougher penalties will come into force from 1st August for not keeping proper corporate tax records.