China: Convictions of Democracy Campaigners in Hong Kong

Lord Campbell of Pittenweem Excerpts

Tuesday 13th April 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con)]

My Lords, I assure the noble Lord that we are working with the United States. However, in applying any sanctions to anyone across the world, or to any organisation, we need to ensure that, with the robust test that we have set up with the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act, they are fully justified and can be defended.

[Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (LD)]

My Lords, on page 63 of the integrated review the Government say:

“We will not hesitate to stand up for our values and our interests where they are threatened, or when China acts in breach of existing agreements.”


How successful have we been in standing up for our values and interests in relation to Hong Kong?

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con)]

My Lords, we have been successful. For example, following the action we have taken in the context of the Human Rights Council, there has been an increase in the number of countries supporting the United Kingdom’s statements, not just on Hong Kong but on Xinjiang as well.