China set to impose new, more restrictive law on Hong Kong, as residents push for pro democracy

China appears set to impose new law on Hong Kong, as residents of the territory battle of for further independence from Beijing include widespread protests demanding pro-democracy rule.  

A spokesman for the China legislature, which on Friday begins its annual session, said members will review a measure to address what he called “secessionist and subversive” activity, foreign interference and terrorism in the city, according to The Wall Street Journal. 

The measure is expected to pass next week, The Journal also reports. 

The protests in Hong Kong over the past year have drawn international attention, with millions of residents rallying in the streets – as some clashed with law enforcement and damaged stores in protest of Chinese Communist Party rule.

China took control of the former British colony in 1997 under the condition the territory would have large autonomy