Agenda item

Hong Kong

Mark Wheatley asked a question in relation about the City Corporation’s position in relation to the recent imposition of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Specifically, he asked whether the Chair would endorse a statement offering the City’s welcome to Hong Kong Citizens with the right to live and work in Britain, or seeking asylum as a result of the removal of their political rights.

The Chair thanked the Member for the question and expressed the view that caution should be exercised in respect of making what could be construed as a foreign policy statement. Several Members spoke to endorse the view that the City Corporation’s role was to support the City’s business and financial sectors, with international politics being the domain of Her Majesty’s Government; however, the City Corporation would continue to be mindful of Government guidance in this area and seek advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.  

Several Members expressed the view that China’s behaviour was in contravention of the Sino-British Joint Declaration, noting that the Government had already intimated a pathway to citizenship for Hong Kong’s residents.  The Chair stressed that the City welcomed all talented workers from across the world and observed the City would continue to trade with Hong Kong as a financial business centre.

At 3.30pm Members agreed to extend the business of the agenda beyond two hours, in accordance with Standing Order 40, in order to conclude the business on the agenda.