By Gazette reporter2021-04-19T08:36:00+01:00 The International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute and the Bar Human Rights Committee of England & Wales have condemned what they describe as the ’disproportionate sentencing’ of veteran Hong Kong pro-democracy figures, including Martin Lee QC and Dr Margaret Ng, barrister. The veteran lawyers are among seven prominent figures who pleaded not guilty in February to accusations of organising and participating in an unauthorised assembly. Dr Margaret Ng (pictured) and Martin Lee QC were given suspended prison sentences Source: Michael Cross Baroness Kennedy QC, director of the IBA Human Rights Institute commented: ‘Margaret Ng and Martin Lee have received several accolades for their lifelong defence of fundamental freedoms, democracy and the rule of law. Their sentencing is unjust and represents an assault on the principles of modern democracies worldwide. It must be met with vehement condemnation by the international community. We urge states worldwide to join in condemning the sentencing and take action against the use of law to strip individuals of their fundamental freedoms.’