China blasts Britain’s ‘Cold War mentality’ as Boris Johnson pledges to let 3million people from Hong Kong flee to UK
CHINA blasted Britain’s “Cold War mentality” after Boris Johnson pledged to let up to 3million people from Hong Kong flee to the UK.
The PM gave British National Overseas passport-holders the right to come if Beijing bulldozes through a security law.
China fears Britain wants to trigger a brain drain exodus, with wealthy professionals — and their money — moving out.
Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said: “We advise the UK to step back from the brink, abandon their Cold War mentality and colonial mindset and recognise and respect the fact that Hong Kong has returned to China.
“Britain must immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong’s affairs and China’s internal affairs, or this will definitely backfire.”
Mr Johnson opened the door to unprecedented visa access amid fears of a violent crackdown on pro-democracy protesters once the new legislation kicks in.
But Lord Chris Patten — the British governor when the rich business hub reverted to China in 1997 — said: “We must stand up to bullying.”
Mr Johnson’s offer would allow pre-1997 British passport holders to move to the UK for a renewable period of 12 months.
The US, which is threatening to revoke its special status for Hong Kong, also vowed to open the doors to refugees.
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