Several UK MPs sanctioned by China have expressed concern over the decision to ease restrictions on them while other individuals remain sanctioned. The move follows Sir Keir Starmer’s recent discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to China, after which Starmer announced the lifting of sanctions on certain MPs.
Those affected argue that lifting measures on only some sanctioned individuals creates inconsistency and raises questions about fairness. The UK government has not yet indicated if further sanctions will be reviewed or lifted.
**Why this matters**
The selective easing of sanctions highlights ongoing diplomatic complexities between the UK and China. How the UK manages these sanctions could impact future political relations and the treatment of individuals involved. It also raises issues about the criteria used for imposing and lifting sanctions in international disputes.