Carrie Lam

China on Friday promoted Hong Kong’s top security official to the territory’s No 2 spot as Beijing continues to clamp down on free speech and political opposition.

A survey in Hong Kong earlier this month found that 42% of expatriates polled were planning or considering leaving the city.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said Monday the city’s government “fully welcomes” the electoral reforms that have been proposed by Beijing and will increase central government control over local politics.