Labour MPs call on Rachel Reeves to advocate for Jimmy Lai's release during China visit

Labour MPs are urging Rachel Reeves to demand the release of Jimmy Lai during her upcoming visit to China. Lai, a British citizen and pro-democracy activist, has been imprisoned since December 2020 on charges related to national security. Reeves will be the first UK chancellor to visit China in nearly ten years. Her trip includes meetings with senior officials and discussions on economic relations, particularly in financial services and green technology. Concerns have been raised about the UK’s approach to China, especially regarding human rights issues. Critics argue that improving relations may compromise the UK’s stance on these matters, as Labour has softened its previous positions on China’s treatment of Uyghur Muslims.