The UK government has taken a firm stance against Hong Kong's recent cash offer for individuals providing information to help arrest pro-democracy activists residing in the UK. Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described this move as "another example of transnational repression," asserting their support for activists facing persecution.
Authorities in Hong Kong are offering rewards between $25,000 (HK$200,000) and $125,000 for tips leading to the arrests of 19 individuals. These activists are accused of breaching Beijing's national security law, enacted following the city's significant anti-government protests in 2019. Prominent individuals targeted include Nathan Law, a former lawmaker, and Yuan Gong-Yi, an activist and commentator.
This isn't the first time Hong Kong has announced rewards—the first bounties were made public in July and December of 2023. Following the previous announcements, Law stated he felt his life had become increasingly hazardous. The UK is also taking steps to ensure the safety of its Hong Kong residents, having moved to cut ties with Hong Kong's extradition laws.
In light of the concerns, Cooper and Lammy emphasized the UK's commitment to human rights and the safety of all individuals, reinforcing their support for those from Hong Kong now living in the UK.
