NEWS ITEM

China warns UK of 'consequences' over Hong Kong 'interference'

Diplomatic ties between London and Beijing have been frayed by China's new security law for Hong Kong. (Photo: AFP/Isaac Lawrence)

On Monday, the UK suspended an extradition treaty with Hong Kong over a new security law for the ex-colony, which gives Beijing more power.

In response, the Chinese ambassador in London said the UK had "blatantly interfered" in China's affairs.

Liu Xiaoming said: "China has never interfered in UK's internal affairs. The UK should do the same to China."

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged to offer three million Hong Kong residents the chance to settle in the UK, allowing them to ultimately apply for British citizenship.

And the government separately announced it would require the removal of Chinese technology from the UK's fledgling 5G mobile network.

The moves came after Beijing introduced the controversial new security law at the end of June, creating offences that could see Hong Kong residents sent to mainland China for trial.

Critics have claimed the law could see pro-democracy protesters in the region being served with life sentences.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in London on Monday evening ahead of talks with the PM on issues including China and the coronavirus pandemic.

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