A new wave of political influence is emerging in UK local politics as Hong Kong immigrants increasingly stand for election and win seats, bringing fresh energy to communities. In April 2025, Richard Choi secured a landmark victory in the Sutton Central by-election, garnering 55.67% of the vote to become Sutton’s first councillor of Hong Kong origin. Choi’s success, alongside other Hong Kong-born councillors, highlights the growing integration and impact of Hong Kong immigrants in British politics.
Richard Choi: A New Milestone from Hong Kong to Sutton
Born in Hong Kong, Richard Choi, now in his early 50s, moved to Sutton in 2008. A former industrial designer at Nokia for over a decade, he later became a small business owner and entrepreneur. In Sutton, he immersed himself in community life, serving on the governance board of Sutton College and as a member of the Sutton Safer Neighbourhood Board. Representing the Liberal Democrats in the recent by-election, Choi campaigned on revitalising Sutton High Street, improving town centre safety, and enhancing residents’ quality of life. His win marks a significant moment for Sutton, where over 4,000 Hong Kong immigrants have settled since 2020, boosting the community’s political influence.
Other Hong Kong Councillors: Diverse Parties, Growing Presence
Choi is not alone. Several Hong Kong immigrants have made their mark in UK local elections, showcasing their ability to engage across political parties. Andy Ng stands out as the first person to serve as an elected official in both Hong Kong and the UK. A former district councillor in Hong Kong’s Sha Tin from 2015 to 2019, Ng relocated to the UK in 2019 amid political changes. In 2024, he won a seat on Wokingham Borough Council for the Liberal Democrats, focusing on education, housing, and helping new immigrants settle.
In Reading, Patrick Li, an engineer born in Hong Kong, was elected to Reading Borough Council in 2023 for the Labour Party. Having moved to the UK in the early 2000s, Li has been active in charity and environmental initiatives, with his platform emphasising public transport and youth education. Meanwhile, in Croydon, accountant Jacky Chan (transliterated) secured a seat on Croydon Council in 2022 for the Conservatives. His priorities include lowering local taxes and supporting small businesses, reflecting Hong Kong immigrants’ engagement with right-leaning politics.
Behind the Trend: BN(O) Migration and Civic Spirit
Since the UK introduced the BN(O) visa scheme in 2020, around 180,000 Hong Kongers have relocated to Britain, with London, Manchester, and Sutton among the top destinations. Sutton’s appeal lies in its quality schools, green spaces, and relatively affordable living costs, drawing many Hong Kong families. These newcomers are not just settling in—they’re bringing Hong Kong’s civic consciousness to the UK, standing for local councils to advocate for their rights and contribute to their adopted home.
The success of Choi, Ng, and others underscores how their professional backgrounds—spanning engineering, design, and accounting—combined with community involvement, resonate with British voters. Their platforms, often centred on economic growth, safety, and education, align closely with local priorities. Ng has noted that Hong Kongers’ values, such as fairness, freedom, and community spirit, strike a chord with UK electorates.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in UK Politics
As more Hong Kong immigrants put down roots in the UK, their participation in local elections is expected to grow, with candidates emerging across the Liberal Democrats, Labour, and Conservatives. Richard Choi’s historic win in Sutton, alongside the achievements of other Hong Kong councillors, sets an inspiring precedent. Their stories are not just personal triumphs but a testament to the evolving diversity of British democracy.
