Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministerial Statement

Hong Kong Arrests Under National Security Law

12 May 2022 · 11 other contributors

Opened by James Cleverly Con Braintree

Foreign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

James Cleverly raised concerns about hong kong arrests under national security law in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The minister expressed deep concern over recent arrests under the national security law in Hong Kong, noting a significant curtailment of freedom and dissent.
  • The UK launched a bespoke immigration route for British nationals overseas (BNO) on 31 January 2021.
  • The UK suspended the UK-Hong Kong extradition treaty and extended the arms embargo on China to cover Hong Kong.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Government Statement

James Cleverly

The minister thanked his colleague for raising the issue of Hong Kong and expressed deep concern over recent arrests under the national security law, which has led to a significant curtailment of freedom and dissent in Hong Kong. He highlighted three major policy actions taken by the UK: launching a bespoke immigration route for British nationals overseas (BNO) on 31 January 2021; suspending the UK-Hong Kong extradition treaty; and extending the arms embargo on China to cover Hong Kong. The minister emphasised that China remains in non-compliance with the Sino-British Joint Declaration, and he committed to continuing calls for China to uphold its international obligations.

Other contributors (11)
  • Iain Duncan Smith Con Chingford and Woodford Green

    Question

    The MP questioned the lack of action by the UK Government in sanctioning individuals involved in human rights abuses, despite other countries like the US having already sanctioned several individuals. He expressed concern over recent arrests and urged the government to step up its efforts.

    Minister reply

    The Minister acknowledged the shadow's concerns about human rights violations in Hong Kong and stated that while they work closely with international partners on sanctions designations, public discussions are avoided for diplomatic reasons. He committed to taking seriously the points raised by the MP.

  • Catherine West Lab Hornsey and Friern Barnet

    Question

    The MP asked about further actions that could be taken in response to recent arrests of opposition activists, including Cardinal Zen. She also requested representations to the Chinese embassy, consideration of sanctions against specific individuals, support for exiled journalists and faith leaders, and assistance for Hongkongers who have fled to the UK.

    Minister reply

    The Minister responded positively to the MP's questions about supporting freedom of religion or belief and press in Hong Kong. He acknowledged the need to protect BNO holders arriving in the UK from potential repercussions but did not provide a direct commitment.

  • Fiona Bruce Con Congleton

    Question

    Can the Minister tell the House what steps the Government are taking to protect freedom of religion or belief in Hong Kong, particularly following the arrest of Cardinal Zen? Will this issue be addressed at the UK-hosted ministerial conference on freedom of religion or belief?

    Minister reply

    The Sino-British joint declaration is legally binding and includes protection for freedom of religion or belief. The Government will address this issue in international fora, such as the summer ministerial conference.

  • Kirsten Oswald SNP West Tyrone

    Question

    Will the Minister pledge to explore every possible diplomatic avenue to secure the release of arrested individuals and clarify what diplomatic discussions have taken place on Hong Kong’s situation? What is the UK Government's strategy for influencing the situation?

    Minister reply

    The UK consistently raises concerns with both the Hong Kong and Chinese authorities. The G7 presidency was used to highlight these issues, and a joint statement was released regarding the Chief Executive selection process.

  • Paul Maynard Con Blackpool North and Cleveleys

    Question

    Does my right hon. Friend agree that the arrest of Cardinal Zen inspires contempt for China's actions?

    Minister reply

    My hon. Friend is correct; China’s breach of the Sino-British agreement highlights a lack of respect for international agreements.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Question

    What assessment has the Minister made of the long-term impact on freedom of religion or belief in Hong Kong and other parts of China?

    Minister reply

    The Government will closely monitor situations in Hong Kong and other parts of China where religious freedoms are threatened.

  • Bob Blackman Con Harrow East

    Question

    Should the British Government consider sanctions for those who have called out human rights abuses in China?

    Minister reply

    The point about inappropriate sanctioning of British parliamentarians is heard by the Government and will be carefully considered.

  • Layla Moran Lib Dem Oxford West and Abingdon

    Question

    Will the Minister look at a report on dirty money from Hong Kong’s officials flowing into our economy, and use new powers in the economic crime Bill to root it out?

    Minister reply

    The Government will read the report highlighted by the hon. Lady, and legislation is being brought through the House to address such issues.

  • Margaret Ferrier Ind Rutherglen and Hamilton West

    Question

    Does the Minister consider statements about cracking down on ‘fake news’ as worrying? Have they sought engagement with Hong Kong’s new leader?

    Minister reply

    The Government recognise such actions for what they are: a curtailment of a free media, and will take them seriously.

  • Sarah Owen Lab Luton North

    Question

    What steps is the Minister taking to protect religious freedoms in Hong Kong? Will he work with Home Office counterparts to ensure UK police protect Hongkongers from CCP agents?

    Minister reply

    The offer made to British nationals in Hong Kong includes protecting them here; the Government take their protection incredibly seriously.

Shadow Comment

Iain Duncan Smith

The shadow criticised the lack of action by the UK Government in sanctioning individuals involved in human rights abuses in Hong Kong, despite the US having sanctioned several individuals. He mentioned that Cardinal Joseph Zen, a key figure, has been arrested along with other trustees of the 612 Humanitarian Relief Fund. Duncan Smith also called for an absolute undertaking from the government to ensure no economic or financial discussions are held without sanctions being imposed on those responsible.

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