Govt Hits Back At Foreign Criticism, US Policy

The SAR government on Friday hit out at foreign criticism over the disqualification of district councillors following oath-taking ceremonies.

In a statement, the government called statements issued by politicians from the US, the UK, the EU and Australia "biased and groundless", saying they are "flagrant and unsubstantiated attacks" on the SAR and "provocative interventions" of the internal affairs of China.

The oaths of dozens of councillors were deemed invalid by the government.

In a separate statement, the government condemned the deferred removal programme by the US that will allow people from Hong Kong to work in the country.

Officials likened it to offering safe haven to wanted fugitives who have escaped from Hong Kong and are attempting to evade justice.

The government again urged foreign politicians to stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs.