Question: Recently, the UK and the so-called "Media Freedom Coalition” issued a statement, criticising China's law enforcement against "Stand News" and Jimmy Lai, accusing the Chinese government and the Hong Kong SAR government of continued attacks on freedom of the press and suppression of independent local media in Hong Kong. What is your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: We firmly oppose and strongly condemn the UK’s act in collusion with certain countries and organisation to make groundless accusations against Hong Kong-related affairs, which constitutes interference in China's internal affairs.

Hong Kong upholds the rule of law, and protects freedom of expression, freedom of the press and other rights enjoyed by Hong Kong citizens in accordance with the law. Since the implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong, social stability in the Hong Kong SAR has been restored and development has returned to the right track. Freedom of expression and freedom of the press in Hong Kong have been better protected in a safe, stable environment underpinned by the rule of law.

At the same time, it must be pointed out that everyone is equal before the law, and any organisation or individual that violates the law shall be duly punished. Freedom of the press is no cover for crimes or illegal activities. The law enforcement actions taken by the Hong Kong police against relevant organisations and individuals are necessary and legitimate to safeguard the rule of law and social order in Hong Kong. They are completely in line with the law and are beyond reproach.

We urge the UK side to set aside hypocrisy, stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs, which are China's internal affairs, and do more in the interest of China-UK relations, rather than the opposite.