UK Says Electoral Changes Undermine Trust In China

Britain’s foreign secretary Dominic Raab said on Thursday that the decision by the National People’s Congress to make sweeping changes to Hong Kong’s electoral system will undermine international confidence and trust in China.

Raab’s comments came after the NPC, in a near unanimous vote, endorsed a proposal to “refine” the electoral system, so only “patriots” would administer the SAR.

“This is the latest step by Beijing to hollow out the space for democratic debate in Hong Kong, contrary to the promises made by China itself,” Raab said in a statement.

“This can only further undermine confidence and trust in China living up to its international responsibilities and legal obligations, as a leading member of the international community.”

Among the proposed changes is a restructuring of the election committee currently tasked with selecting the city’s chief executive. According to the Xinhua News Agency, it will be expanded and given new powers to nominate and select some of the lawmakers who sit in the Legislative Council.

Another new committee will be set up to vet candidates for elections to the election committee, as well Legco, and chief executive polls.

Legco will also be expanded by 20 seats to 90, with some of the legislature to be selected by the election committee – however, Xinhua did not provide a breakdown of the legislature’s new composition.