Question: On 17 December, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron issued a statement, continuing to slander the National Security Law and calling on the Hong Kong authorities to end their prosecution and release Jimmy Lai. What is your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: We firmly oppose and strongly deplore UK politicians' appalling acts of endorsing Jimmy Lai, one of the most notorious anti-China elements bent on destabilising Hong Kong, and interfering with the rule of law in the Hong Kong SAR of China.

Jimmy Lai was a mastermind and instigator of anti-China riots that took place in Hong Kong. He blatantly colluded with external forces to jeopardise national security, solicited foreign support, and was responsible for various egregious acts. While the relevant court in Hong Kong is trying the case in accordance with the law, the UK side, ignoring the rule of law, has scurried to intervene in an ongoing trial. This further exposesits sinister intention to use agents to disrupt Hong Kong.

With the implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong, Hong Kong has already entered a new stage in which it has restored order and is set to thrive. The rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents have been better protected. No external interference can shake China's firm determination to safeguard our sovereignty, security, and development interests, and Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability.

We strongly demand that the UK immediately stop sheltering anti-China, Hong Kong destabilisers, stop smearing the National Security Law, stop meddling in Hong Kong-related affairs which are China's internal affairs in any way, and refrain from going further down the wrong path.