Jimmy Lai: Prison Sentence

Lord Spellar Excerpts

Monday 9th February 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

Yes, Jimmy Lai should have consular visits. He should have access to the ability to practise his religious beliefs; he should also have medical access and access to his family. Yes, we did raise this and will continue to.

[Lord Spellar (Lab)]

My Lords, I congratulate the Minister on her measured response to the real concern shown by this House, which should be conveyed to the Chinese authorities. Does that not make all the more regrettable the intervention from the Opposition Front Bench seeking once again to breathe life into this ridiculous campaign about the size of the Chinese embassy? Diplomatic relations do not ever imply approval. Countries have embassies; big countries have big embassies. That is just a fact and we ought to get on with it, and therefore not get diverted from the important issues being raised here today.

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

I think that is right. My noble friend has a great deal of experience. I think he was a Minister at the department previously and at the MoD as well. He knows what he is talking about, and I take his contribution in the manner that he gives it.