Remarks by S for S at media session on sentencing of Lai Chee-ying's case (with video)
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Reporter: What's the significance of this case, given that Jimmy Lai's sentencing of 20 years is the longest in all national security cases so far?
Secretary for Security: I think the sentence of a total of 20 years' imprisonment has reflected the grave nature of the case. If you look at the judgment, in fact, for each of the conspiracy to commit collusion offences, the sentence has been increased from 15 years to 18 years with an additional sentence of three years. It is because the court has considered the grave nature of the case. I think the sentence in this case illustrates very clearly that any offence against national security, in particular colluding with foreign forces or external elements, is a very serious offence.
Reporter: I have a follow-up question about what you said on the United Kingdom (UK) situation. As his side or his children had said that Jimmy Lai is only a British citizen, he only holds a British passport, how do you compare that to the version of what you just said? And if the UK asks for a transfer of sentenced persons agreement, how do you think the Government will respond?
Secretary for Security: Lai Chee-ying, according to the law of Hong Kong and the law of China, is a Chinese, and we do not recognise dual nationality. Being a Chinese who committed an offense in Hong Kong, China, he serves his sentence in Hong Kong, China, which is a very logical stance. Thank you.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks)
Ends/Monday, February 9, 2026
Issued at HKT 19:46
Issued at HKT 19:46
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Audio / Video
S for S meets the media on sentencing of Lai Chee-ying's case