China tells UK to stop interfering in HK affairs

LONDON: As the stand-off between anti-government protesters and police continues, the Chinese ambassador to the UK has warned the Government against interference in Hong Kong’s affairs.

Liu Xiaoming has accused the Government and the Foreign Affairs Committee of publishing reports “making irresponsible remarks” on Hong Kong.Xiaoming added that some UK politicians had planned to present an award to a “chief propagandist of Hong Kong independence” who has “instigated extreme violence”.

Xiaoming’s comments come as violence escalated overnight in Hong Kong when police ordered protesters to vacate a university they had occupied. District elections are due to be held in Hong Kong on Sunday, but there are fears that the violent scenes could disrupt these plans.

Speaking in London, Xiaoming said: “The British Government and the Foreign Office committee of the House of Commons published China-related reports making irresponsible remarks on Hong Kong.

“What is worse, certain British politicians even planned to present (an) award to a chief propagandist of Hong Kong independence and who has instigated extreme violence.”

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesman said: “The UK is seriously concerned by the escalation in violence from both the protesters and the authorities around Hong Kong university campuses.“It is vital that those who are injured are able to receive appropriate medical treatment, and that safe passage is made available for all those who wish to leave the area.”