Hong Kong officials have defended their immigration procedures following a claim by UK lawmaker Wera Hobhouse that she was refused entry into the city.
This incident has led to diplomatic discussions between British and Hong Kong officials.
Hobhouse, a member of a group critical of China’s human rights record, alleges she is the first British MP to be denied entry since Hong Kong’s handover to China in 1997.
She reported being detained, questioned, and having her belongings searched upon arrival before being sent back.
Hong Kong authorities stated that immigration officers are obligated to question visitors to verify their purpose of visit, suggesting that refusing to answer questions can be detrimental to one’s case. They did not comment specifically on Hobhouse’s situation.
British trade minister Douglas Alexander raised concerns with Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary, Eric Chan, during a visit to the region, seeking explanations for the incident.
Hobhouse expressed her disappointment, stating she received no reason for her denied entry, particularly as her son was waiting for her.
The UK government has criticised Hong Kong’s crackdown on dissent following the 2019 pro-democracy protests.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy deemed it unacceptable for a parliamentarian to be denied entry for expressing their views.
