On Friday, I joined a virtual meeting of Conservative Friends of the Chinese (CFOC) to mark Chinese New Year. I always enjoy talking to the group.
British Chinese people make an unparalleled contribution to this country, from business to culture, and they excel academically. This was a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate their achievements with CFOC.
We also had a good discussion about foreign policy, and particularly the UK’s relationship with China. There were questions around the situation in Xinjiang, the South China Sea and our new immigration route for holders of British nationals (overseas) passports. I was clear that we want to keep engaging constructively and positively with China where we can, while standing up for our values and interests where necessary.
My thanks to Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP, Sheela Mackintosh-Stewart and the whole CFOC board for inviting me to speak.
