The Hong Kongers who've fled to Manchester for freedom, property and top schools

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The well-off families who've fled Hong Kong and come to Greater Manchester for freedom, top schools and property

Chung and Man matter-of-factly describe how they left behind a millionaire lifestyle when they fled Hong Kong in March, as violent protests against China's increasing attacks on civil liberties reached fever pitch.

The turmoil, and the fear of speaking out against the regime, prompted many to up sticks and seek a new life here. Often cash-rich, career-minded and well-educated, Hong Kongers have made a bee-line for the north west, settling in large numbers particularly in places like Trafford, attracted by its high-performing schools, and Stockport.

Like many other Hongkongers, Chung and Man have used an agency to help them find their new home. They raised £1.5m by selling two properties in Hong Kong. Other arrivals have found that selling up relatively small apartments in Hong Kong, where property is much more expensive, has given them enough money to buy a house and a rental property.

"It used to be one of the most free societies in the world," he said. "It was a golden time. But the turning point was in 2019 when they decided to crack down on everything, step by step." Almost every week for a year, he attended street protests. He described fleeing when the water cannon turned up. Anybody found with the blue dye on them - fired from those water cannon - could expect arrest and incarceration.

"The UK isn't a perfect society. But what is important for us? For us what is important is having freedom here and in general people are very nice here and friendly. They are very welcoming," said Man. "The sense of community is great here," said Chung. He said a housing market crash in Hong Kong has slowed the numbers coming here, but he added: "There are still people waiting to come here."

 

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