China dismisses Britain's attempt to disrupt Hong Kong as futile

China's foreign ministry in Hong Kong criticized Britain's six-month report on the financial hub, accusing it of supporting "anti-China" chaos and ignoring the "good" societal conditions and stable business environment in Hong Kong. The report stated that Beijing's national security law has been extended beyond genuine national security concerns. While Western governments have criticized the law for curbing freedoms, Chinese and Hong Kong officials argue that it is necessary for stability. The British report highlighted attempts to suppress freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, delays in media tycoon Jimmy Lai's national security trial, and the politicization of his prosecution. It also expressed concerns about Hong Kong's legal and judicial systems, which have to adjudicate on an opaque national security law that places the authority of the Chief Executive above their own.