GMB Union is urging UK Government action to support trade unionists and activists in Hong Kong unjustly sentenced for up to 10 years for defending democracy and a workers' voice in politics.
In a letter to Catherine West, Foreign Minister for Indo-Pacific, GMB urges her to call on the Hong Kong authorities to immediately those detained and to stop using its National Security Law to stifle dissent and dismantle trade unions.
GMB has also asked Ministers to ensure that Hong Kong workers’ rights activists living here in the UK are kept safe, after previous attempts by Hong Kong Police to enforce their political abuse of judicial process abroad.
Gary Smith, GMB General Secretary, said:
"We strongly condemn this decision by Hong Kong authorities in what is a shocking criminalisation of trade unionists and trade unionism.
"These 45 activists must be released immediately and we are urging the UK government to do everything it can to put pressure on the Hong Kong authorities to do so. GMB stands firm in our solidarity with those unjustly sentenced to prison for defending democracy and a workers' voice in politics. The right of citizens to participate in peaceful public activity to bring about changes in society must always be protected."
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