A British lawmaker faced an abrupt and distressing rejection at Hong Kong’s airport, preventing her from seeing her newborn grandson.
The Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament, Wera Hobhouse, traveled to the territory on Thursday with the sole intention of visiting family. However, upon arrival, she was immediately detained by immigration officials, enduring a grueling five-hour interrogation process before being denied entry and deported.
Hobhouse described her ordeal as deeply unsettling, recounting:
“I was subjected to intense scrutiny, including having my passport seized, repeated questioning regarding my profession and the reason for my visit, thorough searches of my belongings, and ultimately, being escorted to the departure gate by officials.”
The Bath MP stated she felt “shocked” and found herself on the verge of tears when informed she wouldn’t be allowed into Hong Kong. The most poignant aspect of the situation was her inability to greet her son, who was waiting for her at the arrival hall.
Her party leader, Sir Ed Davey, condemned the action as both cruel and unjust.
“Wera simply wished to connect with her son in Hong Kong and meet her grandson for the very first time,” he stated. “After a demanding 13-hour journey, the Chinese authorities inexplicably refused her entry – seemingly due to her status as a British parliamentarian. It’s an act of profound insensitivity and entirely unacceptable.”
The incident highlights concerns over freedom of movement and political interference.
- Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP, was denied entry to Hong Kong.
- She intended to visit her son and meet her newborn grandson.
- Hobhouse endured five hours of interrogation and searches at the airport.
- Her party leader has criticized the decision as “heartless” and “totally unacceptable.”
Further updates are anticipated.
