Hong Kong leaders back security bill

Over 2.14m sign in six days in support of proposed law for Asian financial hub

The chief executive, police chief and other leaders in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on Friday threw their weight behind the proposed national security legislation.

They said the legislation will effectively prevent and contain activities that endanger national security, and restore the city's stability and prosperity.

The endorsements poured in as the National People's Congress on Thursday passed a decision to establish and improve Hong Kong's legal system and enforcement mechanisms on safeguarding national security.

During a signature campaign in Hong Kong launched on May 24 by the United Front Supporting National Security Legislation, over 2.14 million people signed their names in support of the legislation as of 6 pm Friday. This included over 983,000 people signing online, and over 1.16 million people signing their names at streetside booths across the city.