Rushcliffe

Statement

James Naish (Labour Party):

As the Labour Party’s parliamentary candidate in Rushcliffe, I am conscious that there are lots of new families moving to the area from overseas. For those who are less familiar with the Labour Party, I wanted to ensure that you and your neighbours feel informed and able to participate in the forthcoming election on 04 July.

The Labour Party has existed for almost 125 years, growing out of a movement to promote workers’ rights. As a democratic party, we support the right of freedom of assembly and freedom of speech, and will robustly defend this at all times. This will include defending the United Kingdom against any foreign interference in the democratic process which is central to our country’s rich history; and clearly calling out concerns when human rights aren’t being respected.

We are also strong advocates of high-quality education as the foundation for a democratic country. This is reflected in our policy commitments at this election to boost early language skills; to improve the use of data to diagnose additional educational needs; to employ 6,500 more teachers in schools; and to provide a broader and richer curriculum alongside a strong core of literacy and numeracy.

As a Party, we supported the British National (Overseas) visa scheme. We have led calls for the expansion of this scheme in recent years to include new population groups and to automatically include those under the age of 18. We will continue to do this and to advocate for the extension of these visas now that the UK has become a new home for so many people.

As a Council Leader in Nottinghamshire, I have been involved in arranging events at our Town Hall with a range of partners to provide free guidance about housing, jobs, health services, schools and other critical services. We have arranged for a specific booklet to be produced to help new arrivals to the UK and hosted a free Multicultural Festival last September to promote our growing diversity. The Labour Party celebrates the significant contribution that international communities have made – and continue to make – to the UK.

If elected as your MP, I will work hard to address day-to-day challenges such as finding quality work, to make sure that everyone has the chance to flourish in the UK. I will also actively work with my parliamentary colleagues to highlight and challenge international practices which are intended to intimidate, limit democracy, reduce freedoms and prevent full integration into Britain.

I hope this helps to explain a bit more about the Labour Party and its history, and that you will feel able to support us on 04 July if you are eligible to vote.

Ruth Edwards (Conservative Party):

The Conservatives have rightly and consistently stood up for the people of Hong Kong, called out violations of their rights and freedoms, and holding China to its international obligations.

As you will know, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress in Beijing adopted a wide-ranging National Security Law (NSL) for Hong Kong in June 2020. This was a grave and deeply disturbing step. The UK Government carefully assessed the legislation and found that its enactment, imposed on the people of Hong Kong by Beijing, constitutes a clear and serious breach of the Sino-British Joint Declaration.

Signed in 1984 and still in effect today, the Joint Declaration made clear that Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, rights and freedoms would remain unchanged for 50 years from the handover of the city in 1997. As a result of China’s ongoing actions to harass and stifle all voices critical of its policies, the UK now considers China to be in a state of ongoing non-compliance with the Joint Declaration.

It is crystal clear that the powers under the NSL are being used as a tool to curtail freedoms and punish dissent, rather than keep public order, as is their stated intention. This has meant that alternative voices in Hong Kong’s executive, legislature, civil society as evidenced in the arrest of the Hong Kong 47 and media have been all but extinguished.

On Article 23 specifically, I believe this will further damage the rights and freedoms enjoyed in Hong Kong, enabling the authorities to continue their clampdown on freedoms, including freedom of speech, assembly and media. It fails to provide certainty for international organisations, including diplomatic missions, operating in Hong Kong. The UK Government also estimates that the NSL will negatively affect those who live, work and do business there.

The UK recognises the right of all jurisdictions to implement national security legislation, Hong Kong is also required to ensure that laws align with international standards, rights and norms as set out in UN treaties, the Sino-British joint declaration and the Hong Kong Basic Law. The British Government has urged the Hong Kong authorities to respect rights and freedoms, uphold Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy and the rule of law, and act in accordance with its international commitments and legal obligations.

On the Jimmy Lai case, I am gravely concerned that anyone is facing prosecution under the National Security Law, and I share the UK Government's particular concern at the politically motivated prosecution of British national Jimmy Lai. As a prominent and outspoken journalist and publisher, Mr Lai has been targeted in a clear attempt to stop the peaceful exercise of his rights to freedom of expression and association.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Ministers have raised Mr Lai's case with Chinese officials on a number of occasions, and most recently, on 18 December 2023, the Foreign Secretary made a statement calling on the Hong Kong authorities to end their prosecution and release Mr Lai.

Nevertheless, the UK has taken a number of measures in response to the situation in Hong Kong, including the bespoke immigration route for BN(O)s, the suspension of the UK-Hong Kong extradition treaty, and the extension of the arms embargo applied to China to Hong Kong.

The UK will always support Hong Kongers, which is why we introduced a new immigration path for BN(O)s that reflects the UK’s historic and moral commitment to those people of Hong Kong who chose to retain their ties to the UK by taking up BN(O) status at the point of Hong Kong’s handover to China in 1997. This is an unprecedented offer following China’s passing of the NSL. Since the situation that BN(O) status holders find themselves in has changed, it is right that their rights and entitlements in the UK change too. The new immigration path offers a choice that affords long-term safety and stability for these individuals and their families.

On the UK's relationship with China, the recent pattern of behaviour directed by China against the UK, including cyberattacks, reports of espionage links and the issuing of bounties is not acceptable.

The Conservative Government applied sanctions in response to Chinese state-affiliated organisations and individuals targeting malicious cyber campaigns at democratic institutions and parliamentarians in the UK. We will always defend ourselves from those who seek to threaten the freedoms that underpin our democracy.

In Government, the Conservatives have also imposed sanctions against Chinese government officials for gross human rights violations in Xinjiang. In June 2019, we also restricted the sale of crowd control equipment to Hong Kong.

Of course, we have a wonderful community of Hong Kongers here in Rushcliffe, many of whom I have helped with issues they have had with their BNO visa, and if re-elected I will continue to support them as they make their home in our community.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Rushcliffe constituency here.

Last updated: 4/7/2024

Leigh and Atherton

Statement

Michael Winstanley (Conservative Party):

The Conservatives have consistently stood up for the people of Hong Kong, called out violations of their rights and freedoms, and holding China to its international obligations.

I welcome that over 190,000 Hong Kong British Nationals (Overseas) visas have been granted, and hugely value the fantastic contribution that Hong Kongers are making to our national life.

We will not tolerate transnational repression or any attempt by foreign powers to intimidate, harass or harm individuals or communities in the UK. We have passed legislation which strengthens the UK’s ability to counter and disrupt foreign interference.

We have also, rightly, raised serious concerns about the new national security legislation passed under article 23 of the Basic Law in Hong Kong earlier this year, and have been clear that this law has no effect in the UK.

The Hong Kong authorities should respect rights and freedoms, uphold Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy and the rule of law, and act in accordance with international commitments and legal obligations.

The Conservatives will continue to speak out when China breaches its legally binding agreements and when it breaks its promises to the people of Hong Kong.

I am happy to support this campaign.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Leigh and Atherton constituency here.

Last updated: 4/7/2024

Greenwich and Woolwich

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

Chris Annous (Liberal Democrats): Signed

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Greenwich and Woolwich constituency here.

Last updated: 4/7/2024

Epsom and Ewell

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party): Signed

Helen Maguire (Liberal Democrats): Signed

Statement

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party):

I can assure you that these issues mean a great deal to me. I was born in Hong Kong in 1988 and lived there until 1990; I then went to school there again from 1998 to 2000, and have been back to visit numerous times since. I learned to use chopsticks as a child before I learned to use a knife and fork, and spoke good Mandarin as a child, while my parents spoke some Cantonese. It is one of my favourite places in the world, and I am very proud to have been able to call it home. I have been extremely saddened by developments in Hong Kong in recent years, as China's influence becomes more pervasive. My younger sister was almost teargassed during the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong in 2019, where she was working at the time; I know how serious the situation is.

Finally, I have already said that, if elected, I intend to take one more trip to Hong Kong shortly thereafter so I can effectively "say goodbye" - as I intend to take such a strong tone on the wellbeing of Hong Kongers that I know I will be targeted by the Chinese authorities myself, and may not be able to return. That makes me extremely sad, as I consider Hong Kong to be my dual homeplace, but I consider it my moral duty to do my best for the Hong Kongers who gave me such a happy home as a child. I promise you that there is no candidate in Epsom and Ewell, or even in the rest of the UK, who will do more for Hong Kong than I intend to.

Policy Questionnaire

1. Tackling transnational repression by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party):

I believe China to be the greatest threat to the national security of the UK, and to the security of the West in general. I hope to see the National Security and Investment Act used to prevent investment in our critical infrastructure by Chinese companies linked to the CCP.

I would want to see people acting on behalf of China placed under the enhanced tier under the National Security Act, and would also like to see a "foreign interference watchdog" established in the UK, to allow government, industry and the academic sector to work together to address vulnerabilities.

The protection of Hong Kongers in the UK is of paramount importance to me, and I am a firm supporter of the BNO visa scheme. We should continue to ensure there is no cap to the BNO visa scheme, and ensure that local authorities have funding specifically ringfenced to ensure the successful integration of Hong Kongers in UK communities.

The recent death of Matthew Trickett was of serious concern. We must forcibly close China's "administrative services centres" in the UK, which in fact appear to act as clandestine police stations. MI5 resources should be increasingly targeted on Chinese activities, and any individual or entity linked with a threat to Hong Kongers in the UK should be subject to strict sanctions.

2. Sanctioning Chinese and Hong Kong government officials responsible for human rights abuses

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party):

I am an anti-corruption lawyer by trade, and within that remit I specialise in sanctions law. I believe that malicious Chinese actors should be subject to a much greater range of sanctions, preventing them from being able to travel to the UK, and freezing their assets, as has been implemented in relation to Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. I intend to use my professional expertise to pursue such policies in Parliament, if fortunate enough to be elected.

3. Shutting down Confucius Institutes in the UK

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party):

I disagree with the u-turn on Confucius Institutes in the UK, and believe they should be closed immediately, as they are so closely tied to the CCP and China's Ministry of Education. Sweden has closed all of its Confucius Institutes, and there is therefore no reason why we cannot do the same.

4. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in retrieving their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF)

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party):

I believe that Hong Kong immigrants should have access to their Mandatory Provident Fund savings, and would intend to lobby HSBC - which holds around 30% of the total value of all MPF schemes - to release those savings in the first instance, while also trying to reach consensus with the Mandatory Provident Fund Authority. Hongkongers in the UK deserve to feel financially secure, and have access to the funds to which they are entitled.

5. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in finding jobs commensurate with their work experience

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party):

I have spent a lot of time speaking to Hongkongers in Epsom - including teachers and nurses - about how difficult it has been for them to transfer to similar jobs in the UK. I think the process for applying for the requisite qualifications needs to be streamlined, and Hong Kong qualifications should be perceived to be equivalent to UK qualifications in the teaching and medical fields.

6. Improving NHS services and reducing crime in local communities

Mhairi Fraser (Conservative Party):

It was the previous Conservative MP in Epsom and Ewell, Chris Grayling, who successfully campaigned to save Epsom Hospital when it was at risk of being closed under a Labour government - I will continue in the tradition of fighting to retain NHS services in Epsom, and at a national level I believe that we should reduce waste in the NHS and ensure that the majority of funding is diverted to front line services and those who deliver them.

Tackling crime has consistently been one of my top local priorities, and I have already been in discussions with the Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner about having a more visible police presence on our streets, which I believe to be the best deterrent to crime.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Epsom and Ewell constituency here.

Last updated: 3/7/2024

Islington South and Finsbury

Statement

Emily Thornberry (Labour Party):

I’m afraid as a member of the Shadow Cabinet I am unable to sign up to campaign pledges. However, I want to reassure you that I am strongly supportive of the rights and freedoms of Hong Kongers, as defined in the Sino-British Joint Declaration, and defended those rights vociferously during my time as Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary. That’s why I am delighted that Labour has committed in our manifesto to standing with and supporting those who have relocated from Hong Kong to the UK under the British National (Overseas) visa scheme.

As our manifesto clearly states:

After 14 years of damaging Conservative inconsistency over China, Labour will bring a long term and strategic approach to managing our relations. We will co-operate where we can, compete where we need to, and challenge where we must. We will improve the UK’s capability to understand and respond to the challenges and opportunities China poses through an audit of our bilateral relationship. We will always act in our interests and defend our sovereignty and our democratic values. We will stand with and support members of the Hong Kong community who have relocated to the UK.

It's an honour to have represented Islington South and Finsbury for the past nineteen years, and during that time I have always tried to speak up for residents and our progressive, inclusive values. This election is a choice between a fresh start with Labour or five more years of Tory cruelty, sleaze, and incompetence. I hope that I can count on your vote to bring about the change that Britain desperately needs.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Islington South and Finsbury constituency here.

Last updated: 2/7/2024

Aldershot

Statement

Alex Baker (Labour Party):

The first thing I'd say is that we need a change. Chaotic Conservative foreign policy has weakened our alliances and undermined our reputation as upholders of international law. Sadly, for most of the past 14 years the UK Government’s approach on China has basically been the opposite to what we need, which is stability and predictability. We have lurched 180 degrees from embracing a “golden era” of bilateral relations and having a pint down the pub with Xi Jinping under the then Prime Minister, who is now Foreign Secretary. China thinks in generational terms, and we require a foreign policy that is capable of considering the bilateral relationship over a far longer timeframe and that aims above all for consistency. After 14 years of damaging Conservative inconsistency over China, Labour will bring a long-term and strategic approach to managing our relations. We will co-operate where we can, compete where we need to, and challenge where we must. We will improve the UK’s capability to understand and respond to the challenges and opportunities China poses through a long-overdue audit of our bilateral relationship and we will always act in our interests, defend our democratic values and stand up for our principles on human rights.

Most importantly, we will stand with and support members of the Hong Kong community who have relocated to the UK. Hong Kong’s new national security law is the latest degradation of the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong. My good friend and would be colleague David Lammy, the shadow Foreign Secretary, has highlighted this in Parliament and repeatedly pressed the Conservatives on the action taken to counter the threat of transnational repression, especially towards the 160,000 Hongkongers in the UK. Moreover, I know that thousands of Hongkongers still feel threatened by the Chinese government and many have a sense that the Chinese government can act with relative impunity in the UK. That is why we have pressed the government to look urgently into the security of Hongkongers. Finally, I would add that Britain is a tolerant and compassionate country. We have a proud tradition of welcoming people fleeing persecution and abuse, which is why we support schemes like Hong Kong humanitarian visas that have provided important routes for refugees seeking sanctuary.

I hope you find this note helpful. This is my home and it would mean so much to represent the place I live. Change is possible, but only if we vote for it – and I expect the final outcome will be decided by a handful of votes. If we can replace my opponent on 4th July, Hongkongers in Aldershot & Farnborough will have a strong voice in Parliament that is ready to listen to their concerns.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Aldershot constituency here.

Last updated: 2/7/2024

Worsley and Eccles

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

David Jones (Green Party): Signed

Statement

Michael Wheeler (Labour Party):

I fully support Hongkongers in their pursuit of freedom and democracy, and in their ability to exercise their civic rights and freedoms in Britain. No one should face repression abroad or here. I support the existing BN(O) visa programme and the settlement and integration of Hongkongers in our community, as well as supporting the rights of Hongkonger asylum seekers fleeing political repression. If elected as the MP for Worsley & Eccles, it would an honour to meet with the local Hongkonger community to learn more about your experiences.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Worsley and Eccles constituency here.

Last updated: 2/7/2024

Salford

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

Wendy Olsen (Green Party): Signed

Statement

Rebecca Long-Bailey (Labour Party):

Hongkongers in Salford are a vibrant part of our local community which I am very proud of. They have my full support in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and; their right to freedom, democracy and the exercise of their civic rights, free from repression, in Britain.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Salford constituency here.

Last updated: 2/7/2024

Bracknell

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

James Sunderland (Conservative Party): Signed

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Bracknell constituency here.

Last updated: 2/7/2024

Nottingham North and Kimberley

Policy questionnaire

1. Tackling transnational repression by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments

Alex Norris (Labour and Co-operative Party):

The UK Government must take action to counter the threat of transnational repression. Hong Kong’s new national security law is the latest degradation of the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong and represents a clear breach of the Sino-British Joint Declaration on Hong Kong. It is causing fear and unease to Hongkongers at home and abroad. It is vital that the UK Government raise this matter with the Chinese Government and seek a resolution.

2. Sanctioning Chinese and Hong Kong government officials responsible for human rights abuses

Alex Norris (Labour and Co-operative Party):

It is concerning that while the US government have sought to impose sanctions, the UK Government have not acted in the same way. Despite Labour pressing for answers, the Government have not adequately explained this position. Labour believes the use of sanctions must be explored.

3. Shutting down Confucius Institutes in the UK

Alex Norris (Labour and Co-operative Party):

In recent years we have seen concerning incidents outside Chinese consulates, allegations of Chinese spies, so-called Chinese police stations operating in the UK and worrying allegations in relation to Confucius Institutes. The UK must be vigilant to such threats and develop a much more coherent, cross-government approach to China that operates in lockstep with our allies.

4. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in retrieving their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF)

Alex Norris (Labour and Co-operative Party):

After 14 years of the Tories, public services have declined significantly with serious consequences for working people. To combat this Labour has pledged to cut NHS waiting times with 40,000 more evening and weekend appointments each week, paid for by cracking down on tax avoidance and non-doms. We will also take back our streets by cracking down on antisocial behaviour, with 13,000 extra neighbourhood police and PCSOs back on the beat, giving every community a named officer they can get in touch with, so policing gets back to doing what it’s supposed to do. 

5. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in finding jobs commensurate with their work experience

Alex Norris (Labour and Co-operative Party):

I know this is a matter of significant concern and worry to Hongkongers. Labour have been pressing the Government to liaise with the Chinese government on seeking a resolution to this problem. The Government have confirmed the matter was raised with Chinese officials last year. I believe the UK should continue to pursue this issue and seek an agreeable resolution for the thousands of Hongkongers living here in the UK.

6. Improving NHS services and reducing crimes in local communities

Alex Norris (Labour and Co-operative Party):

It is vital that Hongkongers in the UK find suitable employment. I know many who wish to support themselves and their families properly and contribute back to the UK. Everyone should be supported into work and there are a variety of schemes and initiatives that provide this service. I encourage Hongkongers in need of such assistance to contact their local councillors or MP who can provide further details of the options available to them.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Nottingham North and Kimberley constituency here.

Last updated: 2/7/2024

Nottingham East

Policy questionnaire

1. Tackling transnational repression by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments

Nadia Whittome (Labour Party):

I know that many of those who have fled Hong Kong continue to experience or fear harassment, threats and attacks, both towards themselves and their families. The Chinese government is known to carry out sophisticated campaigns of transnational repression and there have been numerous high profile attacks in recent years. Just this month, under Article 23 legislation, the Hong Kong authorities have cancelled the passports of six pro-democracy activists who are living in the UK and threatened anyone providing them funds with imprisonment.

To tackle transnational repression, I support the sanctioning of Hong Kong officials involved in this activity. The government should also strengthen legislation to ensure that political intimidation of Hongkongers is treated as a criminal offence.

I have also opposed the government’s asylum and immigration policies in recent years, which fundamentally restrict the right to seek asylum and leave those without a BN(O) passport in an even more precarious situation. I will always fight for the government to uphold the right to seek asylum and for decision-making on claims to take into account the threat of transnational repression.

2. Sanctioning Chinese and Hong Kong government officials responsible for human rights abuses

Nadia Whittome (Labour Party):

I have long supported the implementation of Magnitsky-style sanctions against senior officials involved in repression and human rights abuses, as has the Labour Party more generally.

I support Hong Kong Watch’s recent calls to sanction six Hong Kong officials in response to the enactment of Article 23 legislation and increasing transnational repression by the CCP in the UK.

3. Shutting down Confucius Institutes in the UK

Nadia Whittome (Labour Party):

I am aware of the concerns relating to Confucius Institutes with regards to academic freedom, their presentation of a selective and politicised view of China, and the potential risk of espionage. Human Rights Watch has criticised CIs for censoring certain topics and perspectives in course materials on political grounds and using hiring practices that take political loyalty into consideration.

Rishi Sunak promised to close Confucius Institutes during his Conservative Party leadership campaign, but has failed to do so. I would support the government closing Confucius Institutes and instead finding a way to increase knowledge of Chinese language and culture which is not linked to the CCP’s agenda.

4. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in retrieving their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF)

Nadia Whittome (Labour Party):

It is wrong that since 2023, Hongkongers in the UK who left under the British National (Overseas) passport program have been denied access to their MPF retirement savings. I want Hongkongers to be able to withdraw their savings, helping them to build a life in the UK.

I support Hong Kong Watch’s call for the next UK government to provide clarification to UK-based MPF trustees that the BNO visa is intended to lead to “permanent settlement and British citizenship” and to condemn this form of transnational repression.

5. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in finding jobs commensurate with their work experience

Nadia Whittome (Labour Party):

Hongkongers who have recently arrived in the UK generally have high levels of education and skills, so it is concerning that a study from November 2023 found that only around half are employed and many of those that are in employment are working in jobs that do not match their skills or qualifications.

Most of these Hongkongers say the biggest barrier to finding a job is confident English. I would therefore like to see more higher level English language (ESOL) courses, as most provision is at beginner to intermediate level. I also support the study’s recommendation for quality careers advice and support with job matching.

6. Improving NHS services and reducing crimes in local communities

Nadia Whittome (Labour Party):

I have long campaigned for better funding and improvements to the NHS. I will always fight for a publicly-run NHS, publicly-funded through progressive taxation, with the resources to provide the best quality of care.

Labour has pledged to cut NHS waiting times with 40,000 more appointments every week. We will also train thousands more GPs, guarantee a face-to-face appointment for all those who want one and deliver a modern appointment booking system. To tackle the crisis in mental health, we will also employ 8,500 additional mental health staff.

In terms of reducing crime, I believe that more effective prevention is essential. That’s why I’m particularly pleased that Labour will intervene earlier to stop young people being drawn into crime by creating a new Young Futures programme with a network of hubs reaching every community. To offer young people a pathway out of violence, we will place youth workers and mentors in A&E units and Pupil Referral Units.

Labour will also act to reduce reoffending. We will work with prisons to improve offenders’ access to purposeful activity, such as learning, and ensure they create pre-release plans for those leaving custody. We will support prisons to link up with local employers and the voluntary sector to get ex-offenders into work, helping to prevent them from being drawn back into committing crime.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Nottingham East constituency here.

Last updated: 2/7/2024

Wetherby and Easingwold

Statement

James Monaghan (Liberal Democrats):

I am pleased that Liberal Democrat MP, Layla Moran has in the past asked an Urgent Question to the Foreign Secretary, urging sanctions on Hong Kong officials involved in the targeting of pro-democracy activists.

I am pleased that the Liberal Democrat manifesto states that we will stand with Hong Kong, Taiwan and the Uyghurs including by:

• Continuing to fight for British National (Overseas) passport holders’ rights by closing gaps in the BNO visa scheme.

• Extending BNO integration funding for Hong Kongers in the UK for the duration of the Parliament.

• Recognising that the human rights abuses being perpetrated against the Uyghurs in Xinjiang amount to the crime of genocide.

• Building new diplomatic, economic and security partnerships with democratic countries threatened by China, including Taiwan.

Although I haven't been able to give you the full response you have requested and deserve, if elected, I would be more than happy to meet with you to discuss this issue further and provide you a full response then.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Wetherby and Easingwold constituency here.

Last updated: 1/7/2024

Harrow West

Statement

Gareth Thomas (Labour and Co-operative Party):

I am proud of the role the Labour Party has played in welcoming Hong Kongers to the UK, and in urging the Government to amend the rules governing British National (Overseas) (BNO) passports, allowing a pathway for BNO passport holders to UK citizenship and providing hope for a new life here.
 
I have made a video relating to Hong Kong and Hong Kongers in the UK, setting out my position and the campaigning work I have done on this issue.
 
You can see the video here: https://youtu.be/FiU3ZA7CZVE

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Harrow West constituency here.

Last updated: 1/7/2024

St Albans

Statement

Daisy Cooper (Liberal Democrats):

Liberal Democrats stand with the people of Hong Kong, and I was delighted to join the Hong Kong symposium in Parliament just a few weeks before the General Election was called.

Many Hong Kongers have suffered grave persecution at the hands of the Chinese Regime.

With repeated reports of police brutality, the UK has a moral and legal duty to stand with Hong Kongers and ensure no one is left behind to suffer under the Chinese Communist Party.

For too long the UK government has failed in its duty under the Joint Declaration and international law to preserve Hong Kong’s democracy and human rights.

The government can make no more excuses – it is time for the UK to step up, lead and take action. The UK government must step up and hold China to account. Now is the time for the UK to consider taking China to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its disregard for its obligations in international law.

The UK must impose Magnitsky-style sanctions on those individuals in Hong Kong and China who are responsible for human rights abuses in the peninsula. That must include Magnitsky sanctions and taking China to the International Court of Justice.

The UK Government must conduct an audit of UK-based assets owned by Hong Kong officials involved in the crackdown, and should consider declaring Hong Kong as no longer autonomous - and review whether it should continue to receive preferential customs status - until fundamental liberties are restored.

Liberal Democrats are urging the government to ensure no one is left behind. Gaps in the British National Overseas (BNO) visa scheme must be plugged - to give Hong Kongers a lifeboat if they need it.

Liberal Democrats would ensure that Hong Kongers in the UK are given the support they need - including guaranteeing an expansion of funding for the BNO Integration Scheme, and ensuring that Hong Kongers’ needs are met, including proper mental health support and English language support where appropriate.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the St Albans constituency here.

Last updated: 1/7/2024

Cities of London and Westminster

Statement

Rachel Blake (Labour Party):

I do support Hongkongers - in their pursuit of freedom and democracy; in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Cities of London and Westminster constituency here.

Last updated: 1/7/2024

Cardiff West

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

John Urquhart (Independent): Signed

Policy questionnaire

1. Tackling transnational repression by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments

John Urquhart (Independent):

I believe passionately in protecting those who move to the UK from oppression from abroad, just as I believe passionately in defending those who live in the UK from oppression from our own ill-designed systems. The freedom of all to pursue becoming the best version of themselves they can is core to my ethos, as is the principle of individual consent. No-one should be punished for the decision to move, and when people make the choice to live in our communities, we have a responibility to ensure they can do so safely. This is common decency.

2. Sanctioning Chinese and Hong Kong government officials responsible for human rights abuses

John Urquhart (Independent):

I believe that anyone who commits human rights abuses should be prevented from profiting from doing so, and that anyone who wishes to profit from doing so should be dissuaded from doing so by all means available.

3. Shutting down Confucius Institutes in the UK

John Urquhart (Independent):

I think it is unacceptable for a foreign power to have influence over British universities, which is why I support free tuition at British universities not just for British students, but also for overseas students. I believe this would remove many levers of oppression for foreign states.

Furthermore and perhaps even more importantly, education is a wealth that we, as a wealthy country, should freely share – for the betterment of all, as well as ourselves.

4. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in retrieving their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF)

John Urquhart (Independent):

People should not be punished for moving from one country to another; we should not be held against our will anywhere, nor should others be held with the punishment meted out against us as example. As such, I fully support Hongkongers in their demand that they justly be able to retrieve their MPF.

5. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in finding jobs commensurate with their work experience

John Urquhart (Independent):

I passionately believe in immigration: I believe that people coming to the UK do so because they see this country has something to offer, and that they, in turn, have something to offer. I applaud the spirit that this demonstrates; the determination and courage; the grit. I want to work alongside such people, and I thus want to do all I can to ensure Hongkongers and others moving to Britain from abroad are welcomed into jobs commensurate with their experience and knowledge – and abilities.

6. Improving NHS services and reducing crimes in local communities

John Urquhart (Independent):

The only way we can reduce antisocial behaviour is through better funding of local services – and likewise, the only way the National Health Service can improve, broadly, is through better funding. I will argue for both. But I will also argue for better democracy: currently, the National Health Service is a highly centralised system, and as all monolithic centralised systems, has harsh edges that are difficult for people living on the margins. More say for those people will smooth those edges, and more decentralisation will too.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Cardiff West constituency here.

Last updated: 1/7/2024

Reading West and Mid Berkshire

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

Adrian Abbs (Independent): Signed

Policy questionnaire

1. Tackling transnational repression by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments

Adrian Abbs (Independent):

As China moved to a more aggressive diplomatic stance along with a very rapid increase in military size and sophistication it has become clear that the Chinese state has weaponised capitalism and is using every leaver possible against the west.

The UK should be the loudest voice in the removal of the freedoms enjoyed Hong Kong using every possible lever. We must disconnect as much as possible economically with the Chinese state as Western Funds are enabling what the Chinese state is dong.

2. Sanctioning Chinese and Hong Kong government officials responsible for human rights abuses

Adrian Abbs (Independent):

There should be no acceptance of anyone involved in this activity. Any lever possible should be used to push back on this.

3. Shutting down Confucius Institutes in the UK

Adrian Abbs (Independent):

If the evidence is clear then I don’t see any reason why they should remain open.

4. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in retrieving their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF)

Adrian Abbs (Independent):

Pressure on the banks involved is something we should be able to do and so yes we should be helping here.

5. Assisting Hong Kong immigrants in finding jobs commensurate with their work experience

Adrian Abbs (Independent):

All immigrants should have this . Not doing so wastes talent that is needed.

6. Improving NHS services and reducing crimes in local communities

Adrian Abbs (Independent):

Who designs the processes is key. For me it is doctors and nurses and then have the administrators enable those processes. The funding can then be set to support the improved processes. The same is true of crime. The experts design what’s needed. Politicians work out how to fund what’s needed through tax etc.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Reading West and Mid Berkshire constituency here.

Last updated: 1/7/2024

Coventry East

Statement

Paul Bedson (Workers Party of Britain):

Thank you for raising the concerns of Chinese people from Hong Kong. I would be delighted to meet and discuss your concerns if elected so I can understand the “Hongkonger” community in Coventry East.

Workers Party seek to reindustrialise Britain and assess the required number of migrants required for our skilled workforce requirements without overloading our stretched system.

We therefore seek to work with China as a friendly, partner country not to slander by calling their system “political oppression” when the political oppression of the Tory and Labour Uniparty is far worse!

Please join or support our campaign by spreading the word to friends and family.

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Coventry East constituency here.

Last updated: 26/6/2024

Romsey and Southampton North

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

Geoff Cooper (Liberal Democrats): Signed

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Romsey and Southampton North constituency here.

Last updated: 27/6/2024

Hendon

Pledge

I pledge to support Hongkongers

• in their pursuit of freedom and democracy;

• in their settlement and integration in the UK, including the existing BN(O) visa programme and support for Hongkonger asylum seekers facing political repression, and;

• in the exercise of their civic rights and freedoms, free from repression, in Britain.

Ameet Jogia (Conservative Party): Signed

You can see a full list of all the candidates for the Hendon constituency here.

Last updated: 24/6/2024