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

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

China has hit back with a warning that Britain must bear the consequences if it continues what it believes is interference in its internal affairs after the UK suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong.

The UK will "bear the consequences" if it continues to go "down the wrong road" on Hong Kong, China has warned.

On Monday, the UK suspended its 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.

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.

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.