The recent conviction of two men for spying on behalf of China in the UK has brought to light a disturbing reality for Hong Kong dissidents like Nathan Law. The case highlights the pervasive surveillance and potential risks faced by those who dare to speak out against the Chinese government.
Law, a 32-year-old exiled leader of the Hong Kong student protest, has a £100,000 bounty on his head and has been a target of Chinese authorities. When he attended an evening debate at the Oxford Union, he was not surprised to discover a spy ring had photographed his entry. The trial of Chi Leung "Peter" Wai and Chung Biu "Bill" Yuen, who were convicted of assisting a foreign intelligence service, only confirmed his suspicions.
Law's awareness of his target status and his usual precautions before and after the debate demonstrate his vigilance. He emphasizes the politicization of Hong Kong's institutions, where "national security" is used to punish those who disagree with the government. This extends to the HKETO, which is used for espionage and surveilling dissidents.
However, the trial revealed a more alarming aspect: Wai's access to sensitive information as a UK Border Force official and volunteer special constable. Law expresses concern about the potential misuse of this access, especially given the lack of safeguards to protect individuals like him. The fact that Wai boasted about tallying up "cockroaches" entering the UK and had access to databases containing personal information is deeply troubling.
The threat to Hong Kong dissidents in the UK is further exemplified by the exposure of Hongkongers' addresses online and the incitement of anti-immigration protesters to "visit" them. The Hong Kong Aid (HKA) NGO's helpline has received suspicious calls from the Hong Kong police, and there have been threats to family members of UK-based democracy advocates. The Chinese government's willingness to extend repression onto UK soil is evident in the attack on a Hong Kong pro-democracy protester in Manchester.
The approval of a new large Chinese embassy in London also raises concerns about security risks. Law and others in the Hong Kong diaspora in the UK are becoming increasingly fearful, avoiding political engagement and self-censoring. This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by those who speak out against China, and the need for heightened awareness and protection for dissidents in the UK.
