China mulls 3-years' jail for anthem disrespect in Hong Kong

Regulations adopted in 2014 allowed the national anthem to be played only during formal diplomatic occasions, major sporting events and international gatherings.-AFP

Beijing (AFP) - A new law that punishes disrespect for China's national anthem with up to three years' imprisonment may also apply to Hong Kong and Macau, state media reported Tuesday.

The move could trigger a major backlash in semi-autonomous Hong Kong, which enjoys rights and freedoms not seen on the mainland under a "One country, two systems" formula.