The measures are designed to "ensure internet information security, safeguard the lawful rights and interests of citizens... and safeguard national security and social public interests", and were approved by China's top legislature at the closing session of a five-day meeting on Friday, Xinhua reports.

BBC: China approves tighter rules on internet access

Many Democrats and civil rights advocates say the program is not lawful because it was not explicitly authorized by legislation.

CNN: Spy court to get secret briefing -- about secrets

For American lawyers, the answer is simple: "The English had used their own Declaration of Rights to depose James II and these acts were deemed completely lawful and justified, " they say in their summary.

BBC: Is the US Declaration of Independence illegal?

Though the government makes supportive noises in defence of both scientific research and lawful business involving animals, few prosecutions have been brought against animal-rights activists who have crossed the line from legal protest to illegal threats and violence.

ECONOMIST: Terrorism

It tells officers not be deterred if they see a "squatter's rights" notice on the door as "the police have lawful authority under section 17 of PACE (the Police and Criminal Evidence Act) to enter the property to make an arrest".

BBC: Q&A: Squatting laws