Detained Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai is an inspiration for his steadfast commitment to truth, freedom and democracy, British parliamentarians said in a joint letter slamming China’s assault on Hongkongers’ rights.

Many readers have sent letters of support to Lai after he was denied bail over a fraud charge pending a court hearing in April next year, with the latest coming from five members of the British All-Party Parliamentary Group on Hong Kong.

The group’s co-chair Baroness Bennett, alongside four vice chairs Lord Kevin Shinkwin, Lord Alton, Andrew Rosindell and Bob Seely, said it was deeply disappointing and saddening to hear of Lai’s situation. It can only be seen as part of the Chinese government’s ongoing assault on the rights and freedoms which Hongkongers are entitled to under international law, they said.

The world has witnessed the “vindictive and targeted campaigns of harassment” against Lai and anyone who dares to speak out, they said. The brutal beating of Hong Kong protesters and the incremental eradication of freedom of expression and censorship of messages of freedom and hope were chilling, they added.

“However, even in this darkest of times, your steadfast commitment to truth, freedom and democracy is an inspiration,” they said.

“Your supporters in Hong Kong and abroad stand ready to pick up the torch and continue the work you have started.”

The signatories said they stand in solidarity with Lai and all those oppressed by the draconian national security law, and they will continue to advocate for Lai and all Hongkongers who fight for freedom.

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