UK Denounces Hong Kong’s Financial Incentive for Arresting Activists
The United Kingdom has strongly criticized a recent cash incentive offered by Hong Kong authorities for information leading to the arrest of pro-democracy activists residing in Britain. In a joint statement, Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper labeled the initiative as “another example of transnational repression.” The Hong Kong government is offering rewards ranging from $25,000 to $125,000 for tips on 19 individuals accused of violating Beijing’s national security law, which was enacted in 2020 following extensive anti-government protests.
Details of the Cash Offer
The Hong Kong authorities have set varying reward amounts for information on each of the 19 pro-democracy activists. Among those targeted are Choi Ming-da and Fok Ka-chi, who are linked to a social media channel called “Tuesdayroad.” Notable figures such as Nathan Law, a former lawmaker in Hong Kong, and activist Yuan Gong-Yi are also included in this list. The rewards are part of a broader campaign that has seen similar offers made in July and December 2023, which previously included Nathan Law and Simon Cheng, a former UK consulate employee who was detained in 2019. The latest round of bounties has raised concerns about the safety of these activists, particularly after Law expressed that the announcement of a bounty made his life significantly more perilous.
Background of the Activists
The 19 individuals targeted by the Hong Kong government are accused of breaching the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020. This legislation was a response to the widespread anti-government protests that took place in Hong Kong in 2019. The law has been criticized for its broad scope and the implications it has for civil liberties. The first series of rewards was issued in late 2023, with a focus on prominent activists, including Nathan Law, who has since relocated to the UK. The third series of rewards specifically targeted six activists living in the UK and Canada, including Tony Chung, a former leader of a pro-independence group.
UK Government’s Response
In response to the latest cash offer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper reaffirmed the UK government’s commitment to supporting the people of Hong Kong, especially those who have sought refuge in the UK. They emphasized the importance of protecting the rights, freedoms, and safety of these individuals. Their statement highlighted the UK’s dedication to human rights and the rule of law, noting that steps have been taken to sever ties with the Hong Kong extradition system by removing Hong Kong from the Extradition Act 2003. This move reflects the UK’s ongoing stance against what it perceives as increasing authoritarianism from the Chinese government.
Impact on Hong Kong Residents in the UK
Since the introduction of a special visa scheme in 2021, approximately 150,000 residents from Hong Kong have relocated to the UK, seeking safety from the political climate in their home city. The UK government’s actions, including the recent condemnation of the cash offers, are part of a broader strategy to support these individuals. The situation remains tense, particularly following a controversial national security trial in which numerous pro-democracy leaders were sentenced to lengthy prison terms for subversion. The UK continues to monitor developments closely, aiming to ensure the safety and rights of those who have fled Hong Kong’s oppressive environment.
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