China warns US to stop interfering in Hong Kong

BEIJING has denounced foreign interference after the US criticised a proposed Hong Kong extradition law that is expected to see thousands of protesters return to the streets today.

The US State Department expressed “grave concern” over the extradition bill on on Monday, saying it could “undermine Hong Kong’s autonomy” and harm its “long-standing protections of human rights, fundamental freedoms and democratic values”.

A spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry yesterday described Washington’s remarks as “irresponsible and erroneous”.

The extradition bill, which would allow a person arrested in Hong Kong to face trial in mainland China, has generated an unprecedented wave of discontent at home and abroad. China’s Communist Party exerts control of the courts, and defendants there and are reported to face trumped-up charges, forced confessions and torture.

A petition has called on tens of thousands of people to swarm the legislature today, where the bill will have its second and third readings.

Nearly 2,000 businesses – mostly small shops, including restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores – have announced plans to close for the day so that employees can participate in the demonstrations.

Thousands of teachers have also pledged to rally, after the Hong Kong Professional Teachers’ Union urged people to strike.

Yesterday evening police set up metal barriers around the parliament building and conducted bag searches as they prepared for today’s rally.

The authorities’ anxiety follows a massive demonstration on Sunday when an estimated one million people flooded the main thoroughfares.

Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, promised to press ahead with the bill, which is expected to pass within weeks as parliament is dominated by a pro-beijing alliance.