Senior party members previously alleged they had been told to disband or face severe consequences, including possible arrest.

These problems first took root as China prepared to assume control of Hong Kong from Britain, in 1997. Concerned that the transition would scare off foreign investors, Chinese leaders tried to woo real-estate tycoons and other business elites by giving them key roles overseeing the city’s future governance.

Chinese AI chip startup Biren Technology aims to launch a Hong Kong initial public offering in the coming weeks, four sources with knowledge of the matter said. The IPO could raise $300 million, local Chinese media reported.

Since the pandemic, restaurants have had trouble finding staff – Roucou Cheese Omakase & Bar is among those that turned to Shift Happens.