China criticizes UK over expanded visa policy amid Jimmy Lai conviction

Here is a rewritten version of the news article in a neutral newsroom style:

China has expressed strong disapproval towards the UK’s expansion of its visa scheme, following the conviction of Hong Kong pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai. The UK government announced plans to expand its visa scheme, allowing more individuals from Hong Kong and other countries to live and work in the UK.

Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison under Hong Kong’s national security law for his role in publishing a newspaper that criticized the Chinese government. His sentencing has sparked widespread concern among human rights groups and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong.

The Guardian reported that Lai’s sentencing is seen as a “de facto death sentence” for publishing a newspaper, highlighting the risks faced by journalists and activists in Hong Kong under the national security law.

The Washington Post noted that Lai’s case has raised concerns about press freedoms in Hong Kong, with many fearing that the conviction sets a precedent for suppressing dissenting voices.

BBC reported that Jimmy Lai was convicted of violating Hong Kong’s national security law, which prohibits activities deemed “threats to national security”.

ABC News highlighted the plight of imprisoned Jimmy Lai, who has been held without trial for over two years, and expressed concerns about the impact on press freedoms in Hong Kong.

The BBC also reported that Jimmy Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison under Hong Kong’s national security law, which has sparked widespread criticism from human rights groups and pro-democracy activists.

Note: I have kept the facts unchanged and rephrased the article to maintain a neutral tone.

Source: Google News World