Hong Kong has published its draft of a new national security law, a document some lawyers said broadened what could be considered sedition and state secrets, with tougher penalties for anyone convicted of those crimes and several others. The draft, which includes new laws encompassing treason, espionage and external interference, is being closely watched by foreign diplomats and businesses.
" "We have serious concerns that if authorities rush forward with enacting proposed Article 23 legislation without adequate public consultation or incorporating checks and balances, the law will be used to continue suppressing dissent and erode the human rights and fundamental freedoms for people in Hong Kong," the official said. The draft bill noted some rights provisions.