Hong Kong introduces new national security draft bill with tougher penalties to stifle dissent

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Follow us on Image Source : AP Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee (Centre) at the opening session of the National People's Congress (NPC) in China. Hong Kong on Friday published its draft of a new national security law that has reportedly brought tougher penalties for those convicted of sedition or leaking state secrets. The draft includes new laws encompassing treason, espionage and external interference and is being closely watched by foreign diplomats and businesses who fear it could further restrict freedoms in the financial hub already subjected to a China-led crackdown on dissent. The Legislative Council started debating the...