China: Hong Kong security law won't affect rights

China insisted Thursday that a planned new security law for Hong Kong would not affect the rights and freedoms of residents living there.

The law would not reduce Hong Kong's autonomy, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said in Beijing.

During a regular news briefing, Zhao also threatened retaliation over Britain's proposal to take in up to three million Hong Kong residents if the security law goes ahead.

"We firmly oppose that and reserve the right to take corresponding measures," he warned.

He also commented on a dispute over passenger flights between China and the United States.

Zhao said China's aviation regulator was maintaining communication with the US over the issue.