A strong respect for freedom of speech and a diversity of views was clearly demonstrated when the Rt Hon Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, was at HKU on June 14, to deliver a keynote speech called ‘Globalisation – its impact on Hong Kong and the wider region’.

The lecture inaugurated the partnership between the Tony Blair Faith Foundation’s global network of leading universities, the Faith and Globalisation Initiative and HKU’s Faith and Global Engagement Initiative.

In his lecture, Mr Blair told his audience: “This part of the world is one of the fastest areas of growing Christianity as well as many other faiths. HKU has a steadfast commitment to scholarship and freedom. The basis for the Tony Blair Faith Foundation’s Faith and Globalisation Initiative is similar. I am delighted and honoured to be partnering with HKU, I could not think of a better partner or a better part of the world.”

Mr Tom Grundy, a Briton living in Hong Kong, interrupted the lecture. He walked towards Mr Blair and said: “Mr Blair, under Hong Kong’s Power 101 law – the law which allows for citizen’s arrest here – I’ll be arresting you for crimes against peace.”

Mr Grundy accused him of alleged violations of the UN Charter, the Nuremberg principles, and the Geneva and Hague conventions.

After a brief exchange, the former Prime Minister suggested: “You’ve made your point, so why don’t you let me get on with making mine? Thank you very much.”

Mr Grundy was prevented from getting close to the speaker, but was not arrested and was allowed to stay on campus.

After his speech, Blair officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the Tony Blair Faith Foundation and HKU.