<p><em>We remain seriously concerned at events in Hong Kong. The Foreign Secretary has set out our concerns about the situation in Hong Kong directly with both the Hong Kong Chief Executive, Carrie Lam and to the Chinese Foreign Minister, State Councillor Wang Yi. The Foreign Secretary has made clear that it is essential that protests are conducted peacefully, within the law, and that the response of the authorities is proportionate. We expect the Hong Kong authorities to abide by international humanitarian laws and practices. The UK has consistently called for a robust, independent inquiry into recent events as a step towards resolution of the situation. Senior officials have remained in regular contact with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the authorities in Beijing. The leadership in China and Hong Kong is in no doubt about the strength of UK concern over the current situation in Hong Kong, and our commitment to seeing the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Joint Declaration upheld.</em></p>