HK govt investigates library prominently displaying books by Next Digital founder Jimmy Lai

Hong Kong government is looking into a local public library displaying books written by media tycoon and funder of Next Digital Jimmy Lai. The issue was raised after lawmaker Cheung Kwok Kwan posted a picture on Facebook of the display featuring several books by Lai, said The Straits Times Singapore.

The government said that if any staff member is found to be involved in the issue, it will consult the relevant departments and handle the matter in a serious manner. “With the promulgation of the National Security Law, Hong Kong Public Libraries must ensure that its collections are in compliance with the relevant law,” it added.

Meanwhile, Lai made a name for himself running Next Digital and its flagship newspaper Apple Daily – which ceased its operations this week following for alleged collusion with foreign forces. Last week the paper was raided by police officers after which five directors were accused of foreign collusion. Nonetheless, yesterday marked the last copy of the paper’s circulation.