Beijing Hasn't Learned From Past, Warns Legislator

Pro-democracy lawmaker Charles Mok has warned that Beijing is set to repeat the "same mistakes it has made since the handover" in dealing with the political fallout from the extradition saga.

Speaking on RTHK's Letter to Hong Kong, he said the central government was only selectively listening to opinions, and choosing its own views based on a misguided fear and mistrust of Hong Kong's core values.

Mok, who represents the information technology sector, said: "I Beijing continues to put politics above our social and economic well-being, even if they get away with it for the time-being, freedom and justice will prevail in the long run."

"Beijing can choose to be on the right or wrong side of history; it is their choice. Hong Kong people have spoken."

He said if the protest movement is put down, it will come at a great cost to the SAR's economy and image as an international city and financial centre.