China warns new Hong Kong lawmakers not to back independence

Supporters of Nathan Law put up flags in Causeway bay following his win in the Legislative Council election in Hong Kong on September 5, 2016.

Hong Kong (AFP) - Beijing has warned new Hong Kong lawmakers not to back independence for the semi-autonomous city after young anti-China activists won seats for the first time in key weekend elections.

Sunday's vote saw activists pushing for more autonomy from Beijing secure a crucial foothold in the city's Legislative Council (LegCo), as fears grow that China is tightening its grip.