The UK has condemned the conviction of Hong Kong media owner and democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai, calling for his immediate release following a guilty verdict announced on Monday.
In a statement issued on 15 December, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said the case represented a politically motivated prosecution and accused Beijing and the Hong Kong authorities of using national security legislation to silence critics.
The statement said the UK “condemns the politically motivated prosecution of Jimmy Lai that has resulted in today’s guilty verdict”, adding that Lai had been targeted for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of expression.
Lai, the founder of the now closed Apple Daily newspaper, has been prosecuted under Hong Kong’s National Security Law, which was imposed by Beijing in 2020. The UK government said the law has been used to suppress dissent and restrict fundamental freedoms promised under the Sino-British Joint Declaration.
The Foreign Office reiterated its long standing position that the National Security Law should be repealed, stating that it has repeatedly called for an end to the prosecution of all individuals charged under its provisions.
In the statement, the UK said it continues to call for Lai’s immediate release, for him to receive all necessary medical treatment, and for full access to independent medical professionals.
The Foreign Secretary said the case highlighted broader concerns about the erosion of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong since the introduction of the National Security Law. The UK has previously described the law as a clear breach of China’s international commitments.
The UK government said it will continue to raise concerns about Hong Kong through diplomatic channels and with international partners, stressing that freedom of expression and the rule of law remain central to its approach toward China and Hong Kong.
