Question: Recently, the UK, together with members of the so-called "Media Freedom Coalition", issued a statement, making irresponsible remarks on Hong Kong SAR court’s trial of the criminal case involving two editors of "Stand News" and making unwarranted comments on Hong Kong's press freedom. What is the Embassy's comment on this?

Embassy Spokesperson: The UK, together with some countries, distorts and smears the status quo of Hong Kong's press freedom and wantonly interferes in China's internal affairs. China firmly rejects this. 

Hong Kong upholds the rule of law, and the rights of Hong Kong people, including freedom of speech and freedom of the press, are guaranteed in accordance with the law. Since the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, press freedom has been better protected in a safe and stable environment underpinned by the rule of law. This is a fact that anyone without bias can see.

At the same time, it must be pointed out that everyone is equal before the law, and any organisation or individual who violates the law will be subject to legal sanctions. The profession of the press cannot be used as a “shield” for committing crimes.

We urge the UK and relevant Western countries to stop interfering with the rule of law in Hong Kong and stop meddling in China's internal affairs.