Dr Paul Behrens discusses diplomatic law in Hong Kong with Financial Times
Thu 27 October 2022
Dr Paul Behrens, Reader in Law at Edinburgh Law School, was quoted on a matter of diplomatic law by the Financial Times (online).
The article, written by Primrose Riordan, deals with recent demands by the government of the PR China to access floor plans, details of rental or sale terms and lease or sale agreements by premises of foreign missions in Hong Kong and of staff residences. The demands raised concerns within the diplomatic community in light of the potential exposure of the properties to espionage activities.
Dr Behrens said: 'In the absence of legitimate interests of the receiving State, such demands are a worrying turn in diplomatic relations. They bring back memories of the Cold War, when "legalised obstruction" was used to make the work of diplomats from the other side of the divide more difficult. But it is not a wise move, since most host States are also sending States. So if one State makes unjustified demands, it cannot be surprised if its own diplomats receive similar treatment around the world.'
Read the full article: China demands foreign diplomats provide floor plans of Hong Kong missions (4 October 2022, Financial Times)