cross-posted from: https://feddit.org/post/3843656

Securing the release of pro-democracy activist and British citizen Jimmy Lai from a Hong Kong prison is a “priority” for the government, Sir Keir Starmer has said.

During Prime Minister’s Questions, Conservative leader Rishi Sunak asked if Lai’s imprisonment was a breach of the 1984 treaty transferring power over Hong Kong from the UK to China.

The prime minister agreed it was a breach and said the government would “continue” to raise the case with China.

Lai, who is 76, was arrested in 2020 for fraud and involvement in protests and, following delays, is now facing trial for sedition and collusion with foreign forces.

His son called for “action” from Sir Keir to “save my father’s life”.

[…]

But he added: "My father will be 77 soon, he has spent close to four years in solitary confinement in a maximum security prison for peacefully campaigning for democracy in Hong Kong.

"As you can expect his health has deteriorated by a lot. I would ask our prime minister to put word to action, to save my father’s life and bring him home.”

Jimmy Lai has pleaded not guilty, but would face life in prison if convicted.

Lai founded the now-defunct newspaper Apple Daily and was involved in pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

[Edit title for clarity.]