Hong Kong rushes security law changes, cementing Beijing's grip
[HONG KONG] Hong Kong fast-tracked changes to its national security laws that further consolidate Beijing's control over the financial hub, with the new regulations taking effect immediately.
The government on Tuesday (May 13) gazetted measures to facilitate the work of Beijing's national security office in the city, such as investigating cases that it exercises jurisdiction over. Premises used by the body – known as the Office for Safeguarding National Security (OSNS) – will be designated 'prohibited places', according to an official statement.
The swift rollout underscores the government's urgency in reinforcing security controls as geopolitical frictions grow. Beijing's reaction to Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing's sale of port assets – including two in Panama – amid the US-China trade war has already prompted some wealthy investors to reassess their exposure to the former British colony.
The legislation is made under a so-called negative vetting process that allows the law to take effect before being reviewed by lawmakers. A spokesperson for the Hong Kong government said the measures fulfil a constitutional duty to counter 'increasingly turbulent global geopolitical' risks, without naming any country.
The rules include provisions requiring public servants to assist the OSNS, granting immunity from civil liability to anyone who complies with the office's orders, and imposing penalties for obstruction.
Disclosing an investigation by the OSNS or failing to follow its directives can result in up to seven years in prison.
The new rules were gazetted as subsidiary legislation under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance – a local law passed last year to complement the Beijing-imposed national security law enacted in 2020.
That earlier law, introduced after widespread pro-democracy protests, permits the OSNS to assume jurisdiction in cases deemed complex due to the involvement of a foreign country or posing major and imminent threats to national security.
Authorities maintain the laws have restored stability and argue they do not affect the general public or normal business operations. BLOOMBERG
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