Hong Kong backs down over Chinese patriotism classes

8 September 2012 Last updated at 16:05 ET Help

The Hong Kong government has backed down over plans to make schoolchildren take Chinese patriotism classes, after weeks of protests.

City leader Leung Chun-ying said the classes would be optional for schools. Critics said the plans were an attempt to brainwash the city's children by the Chinese government in Beijing.

The decision comes ahead of elections on Sunday, when voters will elect just over half the members of a legislative assembly that is expanding from 60 to 70 seats.

Krupa Padhy reports.

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