Hong Kong Rushes to Beef Up Security Law, Cementing China’s Grip

Hong Kong fast-tracked new national security rules that further consolidate Beijing’s control over the financial hub, with the changes taking effect immediately.

The government on Tuesday gazetted measures to facilitate the work of Beijing’s national security office in the city, including new penalties for failing to comply with investigations. Premises used by the body — known as the Office for Safeguarding National Security — will be designated “prohibited places,” according to an official statement.

The swift roll-out underscores the government’s urgency in reinforcing security controls as geopolitical frictions grow. Beijing’s reaction to Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing’s sale of ...