No debate set for Hong Kong bill after protests

HONGKONG-EXTRADITION/ A protester holds a shield during a demonstration against a proposed extradition bill in Hong Kong, China | Reuters

Hong Kong Council official Cicely Wong , through an announcement, demonstrated the impact of the street demonstrations on Wednesday. Statements of concern from foreign governments, business associations and legal professions were also relayed through the announcement.  Those voices have joined with human rights and supporters of the free press who have long warned of growing restrictions on civil rights in the former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Legislative Council official said no time has been set aside for debate on a highly controversial extradition law that has drawn large-scale protests.

On Wednesday, the protest turned violent as police hit the protesters with tear gas and pepper spray. The protesters have been opposing the legislation that would allow criminal suspects to be sent to mainland China where they could face unfair trials on political charges. 70 people were hurt yesterday when the police hurled tear gas, rubber bullets and pepper spray onto the peaceful protesters.

Chinese state media, after days of silence is characterising the protests that has been largely peaceful as a 'riot'. The streets of Hong Kong were thronged by thousands of people who opposed to the proposed legislation that would allow crime suspects to be extradited to mainland China. According to critics, they would be subject to vague charges and unfair trials.

Xinhua state news agency said protesters used "sharpened iron poles" and bricks against police.

Protesters said they view the legislation as part of Beijing's moves to tighten its grip over the former British colony and wanted to block it.