Lib Dem MP calls on Government to do more to protect Hong Kongers after democracy activists' sentencing.

Liberal Democrat spokesperson for London Luke Taylor MP has called for the Government to do more to protect Hong Kongers following the news that forty-five pro-democracy activists have been jailed in Hong Kong for taking part in democratic primaries in 2020.

Taylor, who represents the constituency of Sutton and Cheam with a large Hong Konger population of over 8,000 people, has highlighted issues with the British National Overseas Passport scheme.

He has also drawn attention to the threat that spying poses to the liberties of Hong Kongers even once they have fled to the U.K. - a system some dub “transnational oppression”.

Responding to the news, Luke Taylor MP said: 

“It is hard to conclude anything other than that this was the decision of a kangaroo court, and that the cause of democracy and human rights in Hong Kong is being systematically undermined.

“Since being elected I have met with so many Hong Kongers who live in London - including representatives of the large diaspora in my constituency of Sutton & Cheam. 

“Having heard their stories and concerns, I am deeply worried that we are failing in our moral duty to protect these people, who hold a British passport, from oppression both in Hong Kong and right here on our shores.

“The Government must do more. I will continue to champion the cause of Hong Kongers in their pursuit of the liberties we all deserve. 

“I am calling on the Government to close the loopholes in the British National Overseas (BNO) Passport scheme that are preventing young people from Hong Kong being able to flee oppression.

“And I will continue to highlight the threat of transnational oppression which sees so many Hong Kongers afraid to speak out from within our borders, for fear that they are being monitored and risking repercussions for their family abroad.

“I call on the Prime Minister to ensure our obligations to Hong Kongers are not forgotten as he embarks on a new phase of dialogue with the Chinese government.”