Urgent Call for UK Government to Protect Hong Kong Activists Facing Threats

Introduction: A Growing Crisis for Hong Kong Activists in the UK

Hong Kong activists seeking refuge in the UK are facing increasing threats, prompting urgent calls for the government to provide enhanced protection. Tony Chung and Carmen Lau, both prominent figures who fled Hong Kong due to their opposition to the government, have been targeted with threatening letters sent to their neighbors. These letters offer substantial bounties for information leading to their capture or handover to the Chinese embassy. This disturbing trend has led a group of MPs and peers to demand immediate action from Security Minister Dan Jarvis, urging the establishment of a dedicated reporting system for victims of such transnational repression.

The Threatening Letters and Bounties: A Chilling Reality

The letters, obtained by Sky News, reveal a worrying escalation in the intimidation of Hong Kong activists in the UK. Neighbors of Tony Chung and Carmen Lau were offered HK$1 million (£100,000) to provide information or "deliver" the activists to the Chinese embassy. This follows the placement of similar bounties on the pair in December. The letters highlight the dangerous situation these activists face, with harassments extending into their daily lives, blurring the lines between online threats and physical danger. The activists fear for their safety, especially after experiencing shadowing and following on the streets.

A Lack of Adequate Response from UK Authorities

Despite the severity of these threats, the response from UK authorities has been deemed insufficient by the activists and their supporters. When attempting to report these incidents to the police, several victims were turned away, being told that no crime had been committed. This lack of understanding and support has led to calls for a dedicated reporting address where victims can seek help from trained individuals who grasp the complexity of transnational repression. The current advice to call 999 or visit a local police station has been criticized as inadequate, leaving many feeling vulnerable and unprotected.

The Case of Chloe Cheung: A Teen Dissident’s Struggle for Safety

Chloe Cheung, a 19-year-old activist who fled Hong Kong in 2020 after participating in protests, has also faced similar threats. After being followed by two men believed to be connected to the Chinese government, she was advised by counter-terrorism police to call 999 and given a safety booklet. However, Cheung feels this response is insufficient, echoing the frustrations of other activists who believe the UK government is not doing enough to protect them. Her case underscores the urgent need for a more robust system to handle these specific threats and ensure the safety of Hong Kong dissidents in the UK.

The Proposed Chinese Embassy Near the Tower of London: A Potential Spy Hub

Concerns about the safety of Hong Kong activists have been further heightened by the Chinese government’s plans to build a new embassy near the Tower of London. A US congressional committee has warned that this embassy could pose a risk to UK national security, potentially serving as a hub for surveillance and espionage. This has exacerbated fears among the UK’s Hong Kong and Chinese communities, who view the embassy as a tool for increased repression and monitoring. MPs have urged Dan Jarvis to meet with activists like Tony Chung and Carmen Lau to discuss these concerns and ensure their safety.

Conclusion: The Need for Immediate Action

The situation facing Hong Kong activists in the UK is dire and requires immediate attention from the government. The reports of threatening letters, insufficient police responses, and the potential security risks posed by the new Chinese embassy underscore the urgent need for enhanced protection measures. MPs and activists are calling for a dedicated reporting system, increased awareness among law enforcement, and a thorough review of the embassy plans to address these growing concerns. The UK government must act swiftly to ensure the safety and security of these vulnerable individuals who have sought refuge in the country.