Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC

Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC leads the international legal team presenting Mr Lai, convicted today under the controversial National Security Law (NSL) imposed on Hong Kong by Beijing.

The conviction relates to Mr Lai’s work as editor and publisher of the popular, pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily and his advocacy for democracy and the rule of law in Hong Kong.

The 78-year-old prisoner of conscience now faces a potential sentence of life in prison.

Ms Gallagher, of Doughty Street Chambers in London, said: “Today’s verdict is a stain on a once enviable Hong Kong legal system.

“A brave, brilliant 78-year-old man has been convicted in this vindictive and grossly unfair verdict, condemned for nothing more than being a successful publisher and journalist and a dedicated peaceful pro-democracy campaigner.

“After five long years of imprisonment which violates international law, it is time to end this sham process and release Mr Lai.

“If China fails to release him immediately and unconditionally, the international community must hold China to account.”

Mr Lai is a British citizen and the UK government has repeatedly called for his release.

Yvette Cooper, the UK foreign secretary, said: “The UK condemns the politically motivated prosecution of Jimmy Lai that has resulted in today’s guilty verdict.

“Jimmy Lai has been targeted by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of expression.

“Beijing’s National Security Law was imposed on Hong Kong to silence China’s critics. The UK has repeatedly called for the National Security Law to be repealed and for an end to the prosecution of all individuals charged under it.

“We continue to call for Mr Lai’s immediate release, for all necessary treatment and for full access to independent medical professionals.”