UK Plans Case-by-Case Extradition Cooperation With Hong Kong

The UK government is proposing changes to its extradition arrangements with Hong Kong by removing the city from the Extradition Act 2003 and instead handling requests on a case-by-case basis. This move, defended by Security Minister Dan Jarvis as a way to maintain lawful and timely extradition processes without resuming formal cooperation, has sparked significant concern among lawmakers and human rights groups. Critics, including Conservative MP Alicia Kearns, warn that this could expose Hong Kong critics and democracy activists living in the UK to risk of extradition and repression under Beijing's national security law. The extradition treaty was suspended in 2020 following China's imposition of the national security law in Hong Kong, which led to fears of political persecution. The government contends the changes are necessary because no extraditions to Hong Kong can currently be made despite operational grounds, and this approach aims to balance diplomatic relations with China while safeguarding UK residents. However, opponents see it as a potential reopening of extradition routes that could undermine protections for dissidents and damage the UK's commitment to human rights.