Hong Kong opposition slams China’s move on security law

HONG KONG — Prodemocracy lawmakers sharply criticized China’s move to take over longstalled efforts to enact national security legislation in the semi-autonomous territory, saying it goes against the “one country, two systems” framework under which Beijing promised the city freedoms not found on the mainland.

The proposed bill, submitted Friday on the opening day of China’s national legislative session, would forbid secessionist and subversive activity, as well as foreign interference and terrorism. It comes after months of pro-democracy demonstrations last year that at times descended into violence between police and protesters.

The bill drew strong rebukes from the U.S. government and rights groups.