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<p>We are concerned about the arrests of a number of political figures in Hong Kong,
and are following these cases closely. We expect any arrests and judicial processes
to be conducted in a fair and transparent manner.</p><p>The right to peaceful protest
is fundamental to Hong Kong's way of life and as such is protected in both the Joint
Declaration and the Basic Law. It is essential that any protests are conducted peacefully,
and that the authorities avoid actions that inflame tensions. The authorities should
focus on rebuilding trust through a process of meaningful political dialogue.</p><p>The
UK remains committed to upholding the rights and freedoms underpinned by the Joint
Declaration, the Basic Law and enshrined in Hong Kong's Bill of Rights, and we expect
the Chinese authorities to respect and preserve Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy.
We have made this position clear to the Hong Kong and Chinese authorities, including
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing and the Chinese Embassy in London, and
will continue to do so, publicly and privately.</p>
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