The Intelligence from The Economist Judgment day: Jimmy Lai convicted
14 snips
Dec 15, 2025 
Alice Su, a senior international correspondent with deep insights into China and Hong Kong, discusses the conviction of media mogul Jimmy Lai under the national security law and its chilling effects on dissent. Joel Budd, social affairs editor, explains how UK policies are hurting London, from funding cuts to the exodus of wealthy residents. Meanwhile, Alex Hearn, known for his 'hungover correspondent' title, shares why hangovers happen and offers scarce solutions, debunking popular myths about relief that just prolong the pain.
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Expect Quiet, Symbolic Public Responses
- Expect subdued public reaction because people increasingly fear speaking out in court or to journalists.
- Watch for symbolic acts, like eating apples in solidarity, but don't expect large-scale protests.
Global Leverage Has Diminished
- International responses have weakened over five years as global geopolitics shifted and China appears stronger.
- Hong Kong authorities likely hope global attention will fade quickly after the verdict.
Nationwide Policies Hurt London Locally
- Nationwide policies from the Labour government are unintentionally hitting London hard by changing funding formulas.
- London boroughs face much lower central transfers for local services, squeezing budgets.