Hong Kong unveils New National Security Law with tough penalties

Hong Kong on Friday introduced the draft bill of a new National Security Law that includes life sentences for major offences such as betrayal and insurrection. Under the proposed bill, authorities could apply to the court to detain an arrested person for up to 16 days without charge and bar them from consulting with lawyers during their detention.

The draft proposes a several definition of state secrets that covers not only technology but also major policy decisions and the city's economic and social development. The draft bill also criminalizes the illegal acquisition, possession and disclosure of state secrets, though it offers a public interest defence under specific conditions.