QUESTION PERIOD — Global Affairs
Canada-China Relations
February 8, 2024
Senator Gold, yesterday I had the opportunity to meet with the defence team of British citizen Mr. Jimmy Lai, who is languishing in prison in Hong Kong and will likely spend the rest of his life there as a result of trumped‑up charges under the national security law. Mr. Lai’s defence team did recognize our Parliament’s efforts in drawing attention to the plight of Mr. Lai. However, there must be more than just statements and motions from Parliament. Our government must also be willing to put Mr. Lai’s case front and centre, and also draw attention to this draconian law and what it means for foreign nationals doing business in Hong Kong.
My question is two-fold. Can we get assurances that your government begins every interaction with Beijing by addressing the case of Mr. Lai? And can you tell us what steps your government has taken to warn Canadians about the dangers of doing business in Hong Kong today?
I’m not aware of measures that the government has taken to warn Canadians of doing business in Hong Kong. But with regard to the situation with Mr. Lai, the government believes very strongly in the rights of journalists and media everywhere to operate free of intimidation. The government has raised this issue in its interactions with relevant ministers. The government will continue to deal with all issues relevant to our national security and the rights of others and their interactions with the government.
Those are great talking points, government leader, but I’ll tell you what your government has done so far: absolutely nothing. Mr. Lai’s team pointed out — unlike the clear and unequivocal business advisory issued by our closest ally, the United States — there are no such warnings issued by Global Affairs Canada. Guidance from Global Affairs Canada talks only about the positives of doing business in Hong Kong with absolutely no mention whatsoever of the national security law or dangers faced by Canadians.
Senator Gold, will your government commit to changing that directive from Global Affairs Canada?
I’ll certainly bring this to the attention of the relevant minister. Again, I repeat, all matters, all trials, all issues related to the national security law and the anti-sedition law, including Mr. Lai’s, are taken seriously and are being monitored carefully by the government.
