British PM Boris Johnson stands with critics of China after sanctions

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he stood with the lawmakers and citizens sanctioned by China over speaking out about what he said were "gross human rights violations" against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang.

"The MPs and other British citizens sanctioned by China today are performing a vital role shining a light on the gross human rights violations being perpetrated against Uyghur Muslims," Johnson said on Twitter.

"Freedom to speak out in opposition to abuse is fundamental and I stand firmly with them."