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British National Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong media tycoon and pro-democracy activist, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison under Beijing’s National Security Law. The UK government has condemned the move as a politically motivated attempt to silence freedom of expression.
78-year-old Jimmy Lai, founder of Next Digital, received a 20-year prison term, effectively a life sentence given his age.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called for Lai’s immediate release on humanitarian grounds, citing concerns over his health.
The Prime Minister raised the issue directly with President Xi, prompting discussions at the highest level between the UK and China.
The case is seen as part of Beijing’s crackdown on critics in Hong Kong following the imposition of the National Security Law.
The UK reaffirmed its commitment to the Sino-British Joint Declaration, urging China to honor its obligations to protect freedoms in Hong Kong.
The UK government is set to engage further with Chinese authorities in an effort to secure Lai’s release and safeguard his well-being.
