Hong Kong’s outgoing leader said independence for the former British colony was impossible as he gave his final policy address before stepping down.

Leung Chun-ying, who is backed by Beijing, has been a divisive figure during his four year term, which has been plagued by protests amid calls for greater autonomy from China.

In his annual address to the legislature, the Chief Executive said Hong Kong was an “inalienable” part of China, reiterating a principle often stated by Beijing’s Communist rulers.

"There is no room for independence or any kind of separation," he said.

"It is the obligation of each and every Hong Kong citizen to safeguard our country’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity."