During a visit to Manchester, Sarah Robinson, the British Deputy Consul General in Hong Kong, met Hongkongers who had left for political reasons. They no longer felt safe in Hong Kong and felt unable to return. What about those imprisoned in Hong Kong for political activities? Are they still welcome to rebuild their lives in Britain?

Green Bean Media asks about BNO visa refusals due to political convictions, the UK’s efforts for Jimmy Lai and concerns about transnational repression. Sarah also reflects on growing caution in the way people speak and engage with the consulate following the National Security Law.

In Manchester, she found a supportive Hong Kong community, with Hongkongers starting businesses and importing Hong Kong products, creating opportunities for both economies.

Alongside the serious questions, meet the lighter side of a diplomat who speaks Cantonese but not Mandarin. From language lessons to dim sum and mahjong, join Sarah for diplomacy with a smile.