Salford Liberal Democrats Secure Major Victory as Council Backs Motion Supporting Hongkongers

Salford Liberal Democrats have secured a significant win for human rights, community cohesion, and fairness as Salford City Council voted today to pass a Lib Dem–led motion to strengthen support for Hongkongers living across the city.

The motion — proposed by Councillor Paul Heilbron and seconded by Councillor Jonathan Moore — commits the Council to defending the rights of Hongkongers living in Salford, urging the Government to protect the original five-year pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain under the BN(O) visa scheme, and establishing annual engagement with Hong Kong community groups to build safety, cohesion, and trust.

Salford is now home to thousands of Hongkongers, many of whom live in the Quays and Ordsall areas, contributing to local schools, businesses, and community life.

Councillor Paul Heilbron said:

“Today’s vote is a landmark moment. Salford Liberal Democrats have led the way in standing up for Hongkongers who came here in good faith, seeking safety, stability, and a future built on British values — openness, tolerance, and democracy.

Today, we sent a clear message that Salford will stand with those fleeing authoritarianism, and that this city will not turn its back on people who contribute so much to our community.”

The motion expresses concern over the Government’s plan to extend the qualifying period for ILR from five to ten years, which could cause distress and uncertainty for families who built their lives around the original rules.

Councillor Heilbron added:

“The Government’s proposal to move the goalposts halfway through people’s lives is wrong. It creates fear, instability, and anxiety for families who trusted Britain’s word. Thanks to today’s action by Salford Liberal Democrats, this Council has made its position crystal clear: we expect fairness, clarity, and honouring commitments already made.”

As part of the motion, the City Mayor will now write to the Home Secretary and to Salford’s Members of Parliament — including Rebecca Long-Bailey — urging them to back the community and uphold the original BN(O) pathway.

Councillor Heilbron continued:

“This is what Liberal Democrats do best: we stand up for communities, defend human rights, and deliver practical action. Salford Lib Dems pushed this issue, we built the case, and we secured today’s vote. It proves that even in opposition, we can deliver real change for real people.”

In addition, the motion commits the Council’s Community Safety Partnership to maintain regular engagement with Hong Kong community groups, with annual meetings to strengthen safety, integration, and resilience across the city.

Councillor Heilbron concluded:

“Hongkongers bring energy, enterprise, and enthusiasm to Salford. They make our city stronger. Today’s vote isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of a more open, supportive, and inclusive Salford for everyone.”