Question: It is reported that the UK Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden delivered a speech on economic security on 18 April, and falsely claimed that China committed "aggression" in Xinjiang, Hong Kong and the South China Sea and acts of “economic coercion” against other countries. He also mentioned that the UK would strengthen its review of outward investment in technology and external educational exchanges. What’s your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: The remarks related to China by this UK politician distorted the facts and were extremely slanderous. We firmly reject and strongly condemn it.

Xinjiang and Hong Kong affairs are China's domestic affairs. There is no so-called "aggression" at all, and the UK is in no position to pass judgement. China is resolute in safeguarding its territory sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and in upholding peace and stability in the South China Sea. We firmly oppose anyone’s attempt to stir up troubles in the South China Sea and undermine the stability of the region. As for the UK side’s accusation against China of "economic coercion", it was groundless and extremely absurd.

Imposing restrictions on outward investment in technology and external education exchanges is unwise and will seriously affect the development and progress of UK’s technology and education.

We urge UK politicians to stop spreading rumours to confuse  the public, and stop undermining China-UK relations.