Pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho has reportedly received an honorary doctorate degree from the China University of Political Science and Law in Beijing.

State-run tabloid Global Times and Beijing-backed Hong Kong paper Wen Wei Po reported the news on Friday morning. The reports said Ho was given the degree to “recognise his outstanding contribution and achievements in the legal sector.”

Junius Ho (centre). Photo: Galileo Cheng.

The Anglia Ruskin University in the UK granted Ho an Honorary Doctor of Laws in 2011 in recognition of his lengthy legal career and political work. But the school, in October, decided to revoke Ho’s honorary degree citing concern over his conduct.

“ARU’s honorands must be positive role models to our students, alumni and staff, and to the communities we serve. Mr Ho’s conduct since he was honoured has caused increasing concern. Following an investigation, the university has withdrawn Mr Ho’s honorary degree,” the university said in a statement.

Ho completed his studies at the Chelmer Institute of Higher Education, the predecessor to the Anglia Ruskin University, in 1984.

The polarising pro-Beijing lawmaker has come under fire in recent months after he was filmed praising a group of white-clad men outside Yuen Long MTR station on the night of a mob attack against civilians nearby.

At least 45 people were injured on July 21 when rod-wielding assailants, dressed in white, launched a violent assault on those passing through the station. At least eleven have been arrested in connection with the incident, with some confirmed to have triad backgrounds.

He sued three pro-democracy lawmakers for libel after they accused him at a public event of having links to triads.

“Funeral” items for Junius Ho after his election defeat. Photo: Galileo Cheng/HKFP.

Ho has also been accused of making a death threat against pro-democracy lawmaker Eddie Chu and using sexist language against the convenor of the pan-democrats Claudia Mo.

Ho lost his District Council seat during the November 24 election after being defeated by the Democratic Party’s Cary Lo.

﻿

Weeks before the election, Ho was attacked by a man in his constituency when campaigning in the morning.

Hong Kong Free Press relies on direct reader support. Help safeguard independent journalism and press freedom as we invest more in freelancers, overtime, safety gear & insurance during this summer’s protests. 10 ways to support us.