The tech firm will reportedly no longer directly respond to user-data requests from Hong Kong government authorities. (Washington Post)

Talking point: Google, Facebook and Twitter stopped reviewing Hong Kong’s data requests in July after China imposed a controversial law on the region that has drawn sanctions from the U.S. Google described its move at the time as a temporary halt. Today’s decision is more permanent. The company will now treat Hong Kong data requests the same way it does those from China, by referring them to the U.S. Justice Department for review. The decision is the latest sign of U.S. tech firms distancing themselves from the area. The diplomatic fight between Washington and Beijing is also escalating. Last week, the U.S. government sanctioned 11 Hong Kong officials. China responded with an equal number this week.