Backbench Business

The motion emphasises that while diplomatic technicalities may seem esoteric, they have significant consequences for the world. Taiwan's strategic and economic importance is highlighted through statistics such as 90% of large container ships passing through the Taiwan Strait annually and Taiwan producing two-thirds of all semiconductors. The risk of conflict over Taiwan would cost the global economy at least $2.5 trillion, according to conservative estimates. It also calls for clarity on whether assurances have been given to the PRC that the UK will not seek to counter its efforts on the One China principle and emphasises the importance of advocating for meaningful Taiwanese participation in all international organisations.

Mentioned sanctions and called Sir Iain Duncan Smith to speak.

Joked about speaking on behalf of the Deputy Speaker.

Expressed gratitude towards Sir Iain Duncan Smith for raising awareness about China's human rights violations. Praised the Deputy Speaker for her advocacy for Uyghur people and emphasised Taiwan’s vibrant democracy, contributions in global health, technology, clean energy, and net zero initiatives despite being barred from international organisations due to China's influence since 1971. Criticised China’s misuse of UN General Assembly resolution 2758 as a legal basis for excluding Taiwan from the UN system. Highlighted military incursions and operations by Chinese coastguard challenging Taiwan’s sovereignty, urging the UK government to refute China’s arguments on UN resolution 2758.

Supports the sovereign status of Taiwan, a democratic beacon in East Asia. Expresses concern over China’s military aggression and human rights violations against religious minorities such as Uyghurs, Tibetans, Falun Gong practitioners, and Christians. Criticises China's global influence through debt-trap diplomacy under its Belt and Road Initiative and demands the UK to take concrete steps to support Taiwan including military, diplomatic, and economic measures.

Delivered her maiden speech during the debate on the international status of Taiwan. Highlighted her constituency's economic potential, including a new innovation zone around Glasgow airport and its strategic assets such as the River Clyde and the M8 motorway. Emphasised the need for better connectivity, particularly a bus network and rail link to the international airport. Also mentioned the importance of economic growth in creating modern homes.

Condemned China’s aggressive behaviour towards Taiwan as part of its broader pattern of disregarding international rules-based order, citing examples from Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong. Criticised the distortion of UN Resolution 2758 by Beijing to claim sovereignty over Taiwan, arguing that such actions undermine the integrity of the international system. Highlighted the economic importance of Taiwan for microchips and warned about the potential global economic cost of a conflict, estimated at $10 trillion.

Taylor paid tribute to other Members and discussed the geopolitical pressures Taiwan faces, emphasising its isolation and vulnerability due to China's influence. He highlighted the moral obligation for the UK to support Taiwan's self-determination and security against Chinese aggression. The speaker also called for diplomatic, economic, and security partnerships with democratic states under threat from China. Taylor noted that cutting foreign aid and reducing international engagement has left a vacuum in global affairs, which China is exploiting. He questioned whether former President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit was cancelled due to the UK's deference to Chinese interests and criticised any such decision as unacceptable. He called for a comprehensive China strategy from the Government that prioritises human rights, effective multilateralism, and European cooperation.

Welcomed contributions from other Members, highlighted the valuable and dynamic relationship between London and Taipei, emphasised the importance of promoting trade relations with Taiwan, called for updates on the Government’s plans to lobby in favour of Taiwan's participation in international organisations, raised concerns about Labour's approach towards Beijing, questioned the tangible progress made by the UK government with China, expressed worries about naiveté shown in the relationship with China, demanded an explanation regarding reports of exerted pressure to postpone a visit from former President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan, stressed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Welcomed the debate, praised contributions, emphasised the importance of UK-Taiwan ties rooted in shared democratic values and interests such as security and prosperity. Highlighted trade figures, discussed recent tensions in the Taiwan Strait, warned against unilateral changes to the status quo, supported meaningful participation of Taiwan in international organisations, and detailed ongoing conversations with allies about risks associated with the region.

Asked if a blockade of Taiwan would be considered an act of war.

The hon. Member commends the House for speaking with one voice on the issue of Taiwan, emphasising that regardless of party affiliation, Members recognise the importance of supporting Taiwan's democracy and economy. He congratulates his colleague Alison Taylor on her maiden speech and draws parallels between Taiwan’s status and democratic nations' stance against authoritarian regimes. The hon. Member also highlights historical examples to underscore the necessity for democracies to stand firm against dictatorships early to prevent greater crises later.