New Student Alliance Urges Global Action For HK

A newly formed student alliance, comprising of students from 12 higher institutions, is calling for action by countries including the US and UK in support of the ongoing protests in Hong Kong and is planning a rally over this on August 16.

The group, formed last month to build bridges with international society, wants the UK and the US to pass sanctions against any mainland and Hong Kong officials responsible for suppressing freedoms here.

The Hong Kong Institutions International Affairs Delegation said they represent student unions from 12 higher institutions, including the eight UGC-funded universities, Shue Yan, Hang Seng and Open universities as well as the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts.

The group said they are also demanding the UK government declare that China has breached the Sino-British Joint Declaration.

"They [Britain] have the duty and moral obligation to safeguard Hong Kong autonomy and monitor the enactment of the declaration," said Sunny Cheung, a spokesman for the delegation.

Cheung said the ongoing protests and clashes have brought international attention to Hong Kong and this is a good time to put global pressure on the government here.

He told RTHK's Jimmy Choi that he believes not only the US and UK governments, but also others will respond to their calls, as lawmakers in several countries have spoken out in support of Hong Kong.

"They will support Hong Kong in order to contain China," he said.

The student representatives said the rally is to be co-organised by an internet group which is campaigning against the extradition bill, known as Stand With Hong Kong Fight For Freedom.

They plan to apply for police permission to hold the rally at Chater Garden.