UK Foreign Office publishes latest six-monthly report on Hong Kong

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has published its latest Six-Monthly Report on Hong Kong, covering developments in Hong Kong from 1 July to 31 December 2025.

The report highlights the “further entrenchment of national security legislation and its application in ways that undermine the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Joint Declaration.” It cites the verdict against British citizen Jimmy Lai and the latest arrest warrants issued for 15 overseas pro-democracy activists linked to the “Hong Kong Parliament.” It also notes continued arrests and prosecutions under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (Article 23), including the guilty verdict of Kwok Yin-sang, the father of US-based activist Anna Kwok.

In addition, the report includes that Wera Hobhouse MP was denied entry into Hong Kong while travelling in a personal capacity, describing it as a concerning and unjustified restriction on freedom of movement.

The Foreign Secretary raises concerns about transnational repression targeting overseas activists, including those in the UK, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Hong Kong community. She emphasised that their safety remains a top priority, alongside continued support through the British National (Overseas) visa route as Hong Kongers rebuild their lives in the UK.

Despite recognising China’s ongoing non-compliance with the Joint Declaration, it is concerning that the report concludes Hong Kong continues to maintain a high degree of autonomy in economic, monetary, and financial affairs.

Megan Khoo, Policy Director at Hong Kong Watch, said:

“Hong Kong Watch welcomes the latest Six-Monthly Report on Hong Kong and the UK government signalling their commitment to continue pressing for Jimmy Lai’s release. The reaffirmation of support for BNO visa holders and recognition of the risks posed by transnational repression are also important signs to the Hong Kong community that their safety and future remain a priority.

However, it is concerning that the report maintains that Hong Kong retains a high degree of economic and financial autonomy. This risks understating the real-world impact of the ongoing erosion of rule of law on Hong Kong’s business environment. The steady expansion of national security laws and their application across all sectors creates growing uncertainty for UK companies and investors. 

We urge the government to ensure its next Six-Monthly Report fully reflects these risks, so that both policymakers and businesses are not operating from an outdated picture of conditions in Hong Kong.”