Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government when they plan to review the evidence of the government of China's non-compliance with international human rights law and respect for human rights in Hong Kong; whether they plan to designate identifiable officials of that government as pursuant to the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regulations 2020; and if so, when.

As a co-signatory to the Joint Declaration, we have a duty to speak out when we have concerns. The UK has raised our deep concerns with China on a number of occasions and been clear with them that they should reconsider their actions. In light of our concerns we have taken three decisive actions in relation to the erosion of rights, freedoms and autonomy in Hong Kong - specifically in response to the National Security Law. This has included: a new immigration path for British Nationals (Overseas); suspending our extradition treaty with Hong Kong; and extending our arms embargo on mainland China to HK.

We will continue to consider designations under the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regulations. It is not appropriate to speculate who may be designated under the sanctions regime in the future. To do this could reduce the impact of the designations. We continue to bring together our international partners to stand up for the people of Hong Kong, to call out the violation of their freedoms, and to hold China to their international obligations.