‘Backup’ versions of Hong Kong protest song found on YouTube even after site blocks access to 32 clips following court order
- Video-streaming giant complies with injunction by blocking access to 32 clips featuring ‘Glory to Hong Kong’, but at least 20 new ones recently uploaded
- Justice minister had earlier called on parent company Google to ‘keep its word’ and remove links to song
A check by the Post on Wednesday found that while the 32 video clips were no longer accessible in Hong Kong, the song was still available on YouTube with new “backup” versions being uploaded. It was also available on other social media and music streaming platforms.
“We are disappointed by the court’s decision but are complying with its removal order by blocking access to the listed videos for viewers in Hong Kong,” a YouTube spokesman said. “We’ll continue to consider our options for an appeal, to promote access to information.”
The company said 32 video links were identified as prohibited publications under the government-sought injunction banning the distribution of the song, with the videos blocked for viewers from Hong Kong. Google’s search engine also no longer displays these clips in the city.
The Court of Appeal earlier ruled in favour of the government and granted an interim injunction authorities sought last year over the song, which has sometimes been mistaken overseas for the national anthem.
