A new organization called Labour Friends of Hong Kong was launched at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool on Sept. 24. The group aims to connect the British Labour Party with Hongkongers living in the UK and provide a platform for party members and parliamentarians to show their support for Hong Kong nationals who have settled in the country.
Alyssa Fong, public affairs and advocacy manager of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, founded the group with the goal of acting as a bridge between the Labour Party and the Hong Kong community in the UK. Fong emphasized that one of their main objectives is to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Hong Kong and keep issues related to Hong Kong in public focus.
During her speech at the launch, Fong quoted Lord Sumption, a former British non-permanent judge in Hong Kong, who stated that “The rule of law is dead in Hong Kong.” She stressed that it is crucial for the British government not to treat this situation as business as usual and instead listen to voices from various communities including Tibetans, Uyghurs, and Chinese diaspora.
Neil Coyle, Labour MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark and co-chair of Labour Friends of Hong Kong, also spoke at the launch event. He expressed concerns about human rights violations such as restrictions on freedom of press and speech happening in Hong Kong. Additionally, he highlighted challenges faced by those from Hong Kong who have relocated to live in Britain.
Coyle mentioned that Britain has accepted 200,000 individuals under its British National (Overseas) Scheme from Hong Kong out of responsibility towards them. Some have settled within his constituency. He emphasized ensuring a positive experience for these individuals by providing access to healthcare and education.
However, Coyle pointed out that some individuals from Hong Kong continue facing harassment from China while residing on British soil. He urged clarity from the British government regarding its stance on such actions being unacceptable.
Coyle further discussed how Labour is currently reviewing China’s attempts at influencing various sectors within Britain including business, academia, and government levels. He called for greater regulation concerning UK’s relationship with China stating that “The one-way relationship is over.”
