In Hong Kong, 3 newly elected lawmakers were suspended after protesting the oath-taking in defiance of Beijing. <br/><br/>The law makers displayed flags declaring that Hong Kong is not a part of China and called out for democratic self-determination for the semi-autonomous Chinese city at yesterday's oath taking session. <br/><br/>New lawmakers are required to swear allegiance to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China and its Basic Law, Hong Kong's mini-constitution, before they can take up seats.The suspension apparently reflects Beijing's stance, which firmly opposes moves toward an independent Hong Kong.<br/><br/>Pro-Beijing legislators hold the majority of seats in the Legislative Council following an election last month.