The British government has taken the significant diplomatic step of summoning China's top envoy to the United Kingdom, following the conviction of British-Hong Kong media mogul and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai.
Diplomatic Rebuke Over 'Politically Motivated' Case
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper instructed the Foreign Office to summon the Chinese ambassador on Monday, 15 December 2025, to formally protest the guilty verdict. Ms Cooper condemned the prosecution as politically motivated, stemming from charges of sedition and conspiracy under Hong Kong's Beijing-imposed national security law.
Speaking in the House of Commons, the Foreign Secretary stated unequivocally that Jimmy Lai is a British citizen who has been targeted for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of expression. She expressed grave concern that any prison sentence for the 78-year-old could amount to a life term, and she issued a direct call for his immediate and unconditional release.
Family and Political Pressure for Action
The verdict has intensified pressure on the UK government from Mr Lai's family and political opponents. His son, Sebastien Lai, addressed the media after the court's decision, urging ministers to "put action behind words". He called for his father's release to be made a precondition for any closer UK-China relations.
This sentiment found echoes in Westminster. The shadow foreign secretary, Dame Priti Patel, labelled the trial a "political show trial" and an outrage to democracy. She urged the government to cancel Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's planned visit to China in January unless Jimmy Lai is freed.
Ms Cooper defended the government's approach of continued engagement, arguing it was necessary to convey the strength of the UK's feeling directly. However, a cross-party group of MPs criticised the government for not taking stronger action sooner, suggesting that faster, firmer intervention could have secured his release in time for Christmas.
Health Concerns and International Condemnation
The case continues to draw international attention and concern for Mr Lai's wellbeing. His son revealed that the activist is suffering from heart issues and deteriorating physical health, including his nails falling out, which the family attributes to his conditions of detention, including long periods in solitary confinement.
Mr Lai, the founder of the now-closed Apple Daily newspaper, was arrested in 2020 under the national security law enacted after major anti-government protests. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Human rights organisation Amnesty International stated the conviction feels like "the death knell for press freedom in Hong Kong", where journalism has been criminalised.
Downing Street confirmed the case remains a priority, with the Prime Minister's spokesman reiterating calls for release and access to medical treatment ahead of sentencing. The government faces the ongoing challenge of balancing its condemnation with its stated policy of necessary engagement with China on the global stage.
