Several UK MPs sanctioned by China have expressed concerns over the government’s decision to lift restrictions on them while maintaining sanctions on others. The move came after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his recent trip to China.
The affected MPs argue that selectively easing sanctions creates an inconsistent approach and may undermine the principle of equal treatment. The government has yet to clarify whether further adjustments to the sanctions list are planned.
**Why this matters**
The sanctions were originally imposed amid diplomatic tensions between the UK and China. How the UK manages these measures impacts bilateral relations and sets a precedent for handling international sanctions in the future. The decision to partially lift sanctions could influence ongoing diplomatic negotiations and the UK’s broader foreign policy stance.