China steps up HK rhetoric

The row over democratic reform in Hong Kong 'will surely affect Sino-British relations, including economic and trade relations', China threatened yesterday, Teresa Poole writes from Peking.

Stepping up the rhetoric after the decision by Chris Patten, Hong Kong's Governor, to press ahead with electoral reforms, a Chinese official said the 'blatant' move 'marks the end of the negotiations. It (Britain) must be held responsible for all the serious consequences arising therefrom.'