British and Overseas Judges: Hong Kong

Welcomed the Government's statement but called for more immediate and committed actions such as sanctioning Chinese officials responsible for human rights abuses in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, including Carrie Lam and Chen Quanguo.

Welcomed the withdrawal as a necessary step and highlighted the responsibility for those who had previously supported the presence of British judges in Hong Kong to respond appropriately.

The sitting Supreme Court judges have been placed in a difficult position due to lack of clarity from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The Government could have handled the situation better without leaving it until the eleventh hour. Mr Slaughter asked the Minister about the Government's message to retired judges and practitioners who continue to work in the Hong Kong courts.

Acknowledged the decision while expressing sadness over closing a door on a high-standard legal system, emphasizing that the invasion of Ukraine necessitates decisive action against oppressive regimes. Ms West thanked the judiciary for their role in safeguarding the rule of law in Hong Kong, noted the significant deterioration of civil liberties and freedom of press, and emphasised the ongoing crackdown on democracy and trade unions.

Colburn highlighted the importance of healthcare outcomes in Carshalton and Wallington, focusing on issues such as cancer, dementia, obesity, and mental health. He expressed concern about the outdated facilities at St Helier Hospital and praised the Government's investment of £500 million to improve local health services, including a new specialist emergency care hospital.

Expressed appreciation for the debate and welcomed the Government's statement, highlighting the importance of retaining consistency in justice protection. Noted distress over the deterioration of human rights in Hong Kong, citing specific instances such as the intimidation of legal figures like Paul Harris SC and judge Sham Siu-man. Raised concerns about political prisoners and arrests since 2019, mentioning cases like Tony Chung's three-and-a-half-year sentence for social media posts advocating independence.

Commended the right hon. Member for Chingford and Woodford Green for his efforts in combating Chinese aggression, highlighting the importance of religious freedom in China for groups such as Falun Gong, Christians, and Uyghurs. He noted previous questions raised about NHS procurement practices related to slave labour products and welcomed the proactive response from the Minister. Jim Shannon was invited to make a brief intervention following Vicky Ford's speech. His contribution focused on further actions needed by the Government and other legal institutions in response to human rights abuses in Hong Kong. Commended the Minister's announcement regarding Hong Kong and expressed concerns over human rights abuses in China, particularly for Christians and Uyghurs. Referred to the House of Commons Library briefing paper, highlighting Beijing's increased power over judicial appointments in Hong Kong.

Supported the decision to withdraw British judges from Hong Kong, emphasizing the importance of not lending legitimacy to oppressive regimes. The hon. Gentleman is making an important point about the need for the Government not to direct judges, which would play entirely into the hands of China. The Government's position has been carefully calibrated on respect for judicial independence while ensuring a clear political stance.

Congratulated the right hon. Member for Chingford and Woodford Green on his leadership regarding Hong Kong judges, stating that the presence of overseas judges in Hong Kong no longer maintains influence due to restrictions imposed by the national security law. Emphasised the need to withdraw support from a compromised legal system to avoid legitimising Chinese actions.

Sir Robert Buckland intervened to express his support for the decision made by the Government and Lord Reed, highlighting the importance of an independent judiciary in upholding human rights and freedoms. He emphasized that democracy, human rights, and the rule of law are delicate constructs that require constant protection.