Badenoch Condemns Starmer's China Visit as a 'Failure' Over Imprisoned Activist
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's recent diplomatic mission to China, branding it a "show of weakness, not strength" for its inability to secure the release of pro-democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai. In an interview with Sky News, Badenoch asserted that a "strong UK prime minister" would have achieved this outcome, highlighting the ongoing imprisonment of the British citizen as a central point of contention.
Jimmy Lai's Case and UK-China Tensions
Mr Lai, the founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, was arrested in Hong Kong in August 2020 following China's imposition of a new national security law. Found guilty of three national security offences, he faces a potential life sentence, with his family expressing grave concerns about his deteriorating health and limited access to medical treatment. His situation underscores broader strains in UK-China relations, which also include:
- Beijing's tacit support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict.
- Sanctions previously levied against British MPs over human rights issues.
Despite these challenges, Downing Street has hailed the trip as a success, noting achievements such as a reduction in whisky tariffs from 10% to 5% and the introduction of visa-free travel for British citizens to China for up to 30 days. Sir Keir emphasised that the lifting of sanctions on six parliamentarians would not have occurred without his "leader-to-leader exchange" with President Xi.
Political Reactions and Economic Criticisms
Ms Badenoch, who has been vocal in her opposition to resetting ties with Beijing, argued that the prime minister's reliance on China for key economic components—such as wind turbines, solar panels, and car batteries—reveals a lack of a robust growth strategy. She stated, "His entire economic policy is dependent on China... He does not have a plan for economic growth if we want to get Britain working again." When questioned on alternative approaches, she pointed to domestic measures like reducing business taxes and welfare expenditures.
In contrast, Communities Secretary Steve Reed expressed optimism, telling Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips that the "open dialogue" established during the visit could pave the way for Mr Lai's eventual release. He noted, "The fact that the prime minister raised it directly with President Xi means that there's an open channel that I hope will lead to that."
This diplomatic row highlights the delicate balance the UK government must strike between fostering international trade and upholding human rights principles, with political figures deeply divided on the effectiveness and morality of engaging with Beijing under current circumstances.
