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Written question asked by Andrew Rosindell (Conservative) on Monday, 1 June 2020, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 June 2020. It was answered by Nigel Adams (Conservative) on Tuesday, 9 June 2020 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Hong Kong: National Anthems and National Security

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what discussions he has had with his Chinese counterpart on the proposed (a) anthem and (b) security legislation in Hong Kong.

Answer

We are deeply concerned by China's plan to impose national security legislation on Hong Kong. The Foreign Secretary has made two joint statements with international partners, and made a clear statement to Parliament on 2 June. Senior Officials have raised our concerns directly with the acting Chief Executive in Hong Kong, the Chinese Ambassador in London and the Chinese authorities in Beijing. On 8 June, the Foreign Secretary spoke to Chinese State Councillor and Minister for Foreign affairs, Wang Yi. He set out the UK's deep concern at China's proposal to impose national security law in Hong Kong, which is in conflict with the high degree of autonomy, and rights and freedoms, protected under international law by the Sino-British Joint Declaration. The Chinese Government is well aware of our serious concern, and we will continue to raise this issue at senior levels with the Chinese and Hong Kong authorities.

In respect of the National Anthem Law, we are clear that all laws introduced in Hong Kong must respect its high-degree of autonomy, follow the appropriate legislative scrutiny, and respect the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Joint Declaration.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
51675
Session
2019-21
Subjects
China Hong Kong National security National anthems
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk