Following the imposition by China of a controversial national security law on Hong Kong, the UK has confirmed that new arrangements will be put in place for British nationals there.

The new, bespoke immigration rules will allow British nationals overseas citizens the right to live and work in the UK for longer and offer a path to full British citizenship.

This unprecedented extension of visa rights follows increasing restrictions on the rights and freedoms of the people of Hong Kong by the Chinese Government, which the Home Office says contravenes the Sino-British Joint Declaration.

It follows an earlier commitment made by the UK Government to change the rules following China's disclosure in early June of the new proposals.

Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab, said: "We will not look the other way on Hong Kong, and we will not duck our historic responsibilities to its people. We will honour our commitment to change the arrangements for those holding BN(O) status and continue to stand up for the people of Hong Kong.

The new Chinese legislation was imposed yesterday, giving rise to protests on the island, where hundreds of people have been arrested.

Home Secretary, Priti Patel said China’s decision to impose national security legislation on Hong Kong was "deeply regrettable".

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