Hong Kong plans to make politicians swear oath of loyalty to Beijing

All election participants will have to swear allegiance or face five-year ban under bill to be tabled next month

Hong Kong's government has announced electoral changes requiring office-holders to pledge and maintain an oath of loyalty to Hong Kong and Beijing, or face disqualification and a five-year ban on running for re-election.

A bill to ensure patriots govern Hong Kong" has been endorsed by the chief executive council and will be tabled in March, the secretary for constitutional and mainland affairs, Erick Tsang, told a press conference on Tuesday.