Hong Kong threatens ‘action’ against independence party

The Hong Kong government has threatened to “take action” against a new independence party and China slammed the group, which said on Thursday it had been blocked from registering for political reasons.

The Hong Kong National Party, made up of 30-50 students and young professionals, launched Monday saying it is tapping in to the semi-autonomous city's increasing desire to break away from the mainland. There have been growing calls for independence from Hong Kong's youth over fears Beijing is seeking to curb freedoms in the city.

The Hong Kong government said advocating independence was against the city's mini-constitution and would "undermine the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong".

“The SAR government will take action according to the law,” it said in a statement late Wednesday. Officials said they had “no further comment” on what that might entail.

China’s State Council Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office also hit out, voicing “resolute opposition” to calls for independence, according to official news agency Xinhua.

It said the Hong Kong government had “refused to register” the new party, a move it termed “proper”. A Hong Kong National Party member confirmed to AFP today the group had been blocked from registering as a company, which could make it difficult for it to stand in any election.