Tensions between China and Britain escalated on Monday, after a spokesman for the British prime minister said that China’s decision to deny British parliamentarians access to Hong Kong served to only “amplify concerns about the situation in Hong Kong rather than diminishing concerns.”
The British House of Commons has declared an emergency debate, to be held on Tuesday, that will discuss how to deal with escalating diplomatic tensions with China, reports the BBC.
The Chinese foreign ministry responded, labelling the British Foreign Affairs Select Committee access requests as attempts to interfere in “internal affairs.”
“For those who are committed and sincere about promoting China-UK friendship, China’s door is always open. However, we do not welcome those who came to China to interfere in our internal affairs and will not allow them to do so,” said the Chinese foreign ministry in their statement.
Downing Street announced on Monday, that the British foreign secretary, Philip Hammond, had raised the issue with his Chinese counterpart in Vienna, reports the Financial Times.
Related articles:
British lawmakers denied entry to Hong Kong as security forces clamp down on protests (30 November 2014)
Student leaders arrested as police clamp down on Hong Kong protests (26 November 2014)
Renewed clashes at Hong Kong protest site (18 October 2014)
The British House of Commons has declared an emergency debate, to be held on Tuesday, that will discuss how to deal with escalating diplomatic tensions with China, reports the BBC.
The Chinese foreign ministry responded, labelling the British Foreign Affairs Select Committee access requests as attempts to interfere in “internal affairs.”
“For those who are committed and sincere about promoting China-UK friendship, China’s door is always open. However, we do not welcome those who came to China to interfere in our internal affairs and will not allow them to do so,” said the Chinese foreign ministry in their statement.
Downing Street announced on Monday, that the British foreign secretary, Philip Hammond, had raised the issue with his Chinese counterpart in Vienna, reports the Financial Times.
Related articles:
British lawmakers denied entry to Hong Kong as security forces clamp down on protests (30 November 2014)
Student leaders arrested as police clamp down on Hong Kong protests (26 November 2014)
Renewed clashes at Hong Kong protest site (18 October 2014)
Hong Kong Chief Executive open for talks with protestors (16 October 2014)
Clashes as police clear Hong Kong protestors (14 October 2014)
Hundreds of pro-democracy protesters march through Hong Kong (14 September 2014)