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British and Overseas Judges: Hong Kong

30 March 2022

Lead MP

Iain Duncan Smith
Chingford and Woodford Green
Con

Responding Minister

Vicky Ford

Tags

ImmigrationEmploymentForeign Affairs
Word Count: 12514
Other Contributors: 10

At a Glance

Iain Duncan Smith raised concerns about british and overseas judges: hong kong in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The Government should clarify their position on the withdrawal of British judges and ensure that this move sends a clear message against regimes sliding into tyranny.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Chingford and Woodford Green
Opened the debate
The presence of British judges in Hong Kong has lent legitimacy to a regime that violates the Sino-British agreement terms, prosecuting individuals for advocating freedom. This situation is exacerbated by the ongoing deterioration of human rights conditions in Hong Kong.

Government Response

Vicky Ford
Government Response
The Minister for Asia and the Middle East, my right hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase (Amanda Milling), would have been delighted to take part but is currently travelling in the region on ministerial duties. Vicky Ford responded on behalf of the Government by outlining deep concerns about rights and freedoms in Hong Kong deteriorating since 1984, noting breaches of the joint declaration through the national security law and changes to the electoral system. She acknowledged the decision for UK judges to withdraw from the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal as a reflection of how far political and legal situations have declined. Vicky Ford stated that while there is no legal requirement for UK sitting judges in the court, it was part of the UK's commitment to safeguarding rule of law. She emphasised continued support for the people of Hong Kong through visa routes for BNOs, suspending extradition treaties with Hong Kong, and extending arms embargoes on mainland China to cover Hong Kong. The Government have led international efforts to hold China accountable for human rights violations in both Xinjiang and Hong Kong, including issuing sanctions against Chinese officials responsible for repressive security policies across Xinjiang. It is a pleasure to serve under the chairmanship, and I congratulate Elliot Colburn on bringing forward this important debate. The Government remains committed to delivering a new hospital for Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust by 2030 as part of their plans to build 40 new hospitals across the decade. To date, over £31 million in public dividend capital has been allocated to support various works related to the scheme including fees for design work, construction funding for a multi-storey car park and contributions towards electronic patient record system costs. The Minister assures that further allocations will be decided through proper processes as the scheme progresses. Collaborative efforts between trusts and the programme aim at maximising value for money while adhering to principles of repeatable design, modern methods of construction, and net carbon zero. The new hospital building programme includes significant upgrades to over 70 hospitals worth £1.7 billion and a wider capital investment plan. Additionally, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust has received £6.1 million for emergency department expansion, £7.4 million for service relocation, and £11.6 million for estate maintenance. The Minister expresses gratitude towards healthcare staff who contributed during the pandemic.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

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.