Emily Thornberry MP, Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary, following news of the death of Liu Xiaobo, said:

“In Liu Xiaobo the world has lost a fearless champion of human rights and democracy, whose non-violent campaigning was an inspiration to many millions in China around the world.

“It is tragic and deeply regrettable that he spent so many of his final years in prison, and that as his health deteriorated he was unable to seek medical treatment overseas or to share his final hours with those closest to him.

“He will be sorely missed, and his courage, compassion and unyielding belief in universal rights will live on.”