Backbenchers call for sanctions on China following Hong Kong arrests

Following the arrests of three oppositions to the leadership in Hong Kong, Iain Duncan Smith asked in an urgent question for a statement on the situation from the government.

Foreign minister James Cleverly told the House of Commons of the “strong opposition”  that the UK government has made clear to authorities in Hong Kong and mainland China. 

Cleverly explained that while he “absolutely hears the point” made by Duncan Smith and fellow backbencher Bob Blackman, to sanction individuals in China and Hong Kong, he would not discuss sanctions on the floor of the House.