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Hongkongers in the UK: Visas, Security and Services

17 October 2024

Lead MP

Connor Rand
Altrincham and Sale West
Lab

Responding Minister

Seema Malhotra

Tags

ImmigrationCrime & Law EnforcementEconomyTaxationForeign Affairs
Word Count: 12409
Other Contributors: 12

At a Glance

Connor Rand raised concerns about hongkongers in the uk: visas, security and services in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The speaker asks the government to ensure that Hong Kongers with criminal records from protesting are not denied visas; to engage in conversations to close the loophole for those born between 1979 and 1997; to guarantee the safety of Hongkongers in the UK, especially given recent Chinese state aggression; and to address issues like accessing retirement savings and tuition fees.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Altrincham and Sale West
Opened the debate
The speaker is concerned about the erosion of democracy and human rights in Hong Kong since 2020, with over 10,000 arrests of protesters, 900 journalists losing their livelihoods, and a rapid increase in political prisoners. There are also issues with the BNO visa scheme's loopholes for those born between 1979 and 1997 who cannot apply due to age restrictions. Additionally, there is fear among Hongkongers about Chinese state interference and threats of espionage.

Government Response

Seema Malhotra
Government Response
The Government are deeply committed to supporting members of the Hong Kong community who have relocated to the UK, reflecting the UK's historic and moral responsibility for and commitment to the people of Hong Kong. Since the launch of the BNO visa route in 2021, over 209,000 people have been granted a BNO visa, with more than 150,000 arriving in the UK. The standard immigration rules on criminality and adverse behaviours apply to applications through the BNO route but are assessed flexibly to avoid automatic refusal of applications due to politically motivated or trumped-up charges. There is £1 million funding for voluntary and community sector organisations to deliver projects focused on employability and mental health wellbeing, with initiatives like The Growth Company's Jobs for Hongkongers programme and local schemes addressing employment challenges. International fees are a concern but the majority of BNO status holders will qualify for home fee status and student finance once they have obtained settlement in the UK, subject to meeting eligibility requirements. Regarding the Mandatory Provident Fund, the issue of £3 billion funds being frozen is under review with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office raising concerns directly with the Hong Kong Government and the MPF Schemes Authority. On security, attempts by foreign Governments to coerce, intimidate or harm critics overseas are unacceptable, and UK's capability to understand and respond to China's challenges through an audit of the relationship. The National Security Act 2023 provides new powers for law enforcement to protect from modern state threats, including transnational repression with a clear definition needed. There are no plans to shut down the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, and Jimmy Lai's case is prioritised with UK diplomats attending his court proceedings regularly.
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About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.