China Human Rights 2021-03-02
2021-03-02
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from ongoing international concerns over human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, particularly targeting the Uyghur people and citizens of Hong Kong. The Foreign Secretary previously announced measures on January 12 to prevent British organisations from being complicit in these violations.
What progress has been made on identifying and applying sanctions against senior Chinese Government officials responsible for human rights violations against (a) the Uyghur people and (b) Hong Kong citizens?
The Foreign Secretary announced targeted measures on 12 January to help ensure that no British organisations are complicit in the gross human rights violations occurring in Xinjiang. The United Kingdom continues to lead international action, including at the UN, to hold China to account.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide specific details on sanctions against Chinese officials or timelines for future actions.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question is raised ahead of International Women's Day, highlighting a recent BBC report detailing sexual violence in Xinjiang. The hon. member references the use of Magnitsky sanctions against Myanmar and asks why similar actions have not been taken for Xinjiang.
Ahead of International Women's Day, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the recent report by the BBC which highlighted the extensive use of sexual violence in Xinjiang. Can he explain why it is taking the Government so long to sanction Chinese officials? In light of recent Magnitsky sanctions in the case of Myanmar, can he explain why they have yet to be used in the case of Xinjiang?
We are carefully considering further designations under our human rights sanctions regime, but it is not appropriate to speculate on who may be designated in the future, as such speculation could reduce the impact of these sanctions.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The answer avoids providing a concrete timeline or specific reasons for the delay.
Response accuracy