The British government has assured Hong Kong residents in the UK that they will be safe despite the implementation of 23 new national security laws in Hong Kong. In a report released on April 15, former Prime Minister David Cameron stated that the new laws will have no effect in the UK and that they do not have any extradition treaty in force with Hong Kong or China.
However, the Hong Kong government and the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs have criticized the UK for their interference in Hong Kong affairs. They stated that the UK has no right to interfere in Hong Kong affairs and called on them to stop meddling in China’s internal affairs.
The Hong Kong government and Chinese Embassy in the UK issued statements condemning the UK for their remarks on Hong Kong’s electoral system and district council elections, calling them “completely untrue.” They also defended the new national security law, stating that it is necessary to maintain Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability.
Despite the criticism from Hong Kong and China, the British government stands by their reassurance to Hong Kong residents in the UK, stating that they are safe and protected in the country. The implementation of the new national security laws in Hong Kong continues to be a point of contention between the two governments.