58 Deferred

Support formal agreement for closer AUKUS Strand B engagement with Japan towards membership

Recommendation
The Government should support a formal agreement on closer engagement of AUKUS Strand B with Japan in the short term with a potential view to eventual Japanese membership of AUKUS, which would greatly strengthen AUKUS’ role in the Indo- Pacific.
Government Response Summary
The government agrees but responds with a general statement condemning attempts by China and Hong Kong to intimidate individuals and affirming the UK's commitment to freedom of expression, completely unrelated to supporting AUKUS engagement with Japan.
Paragraph Reference
199
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government Deferred
58. The Government agrees and has made clear publicly that any attempts by China and Hong Kong to intimidate and silence individuals in the UK and overseas are unacceptable. The UK will always defend the universal right to freedom of expression and stand up for those who are targeted.
Addressee Bodies
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Timeline
Recommendation age 2.8 yrs
Report published 30 Aug 2023