Conflict of issues as Chinese leader arrives in UK

President Hu Jintao flew into the UK today on the start of his tour of the West. Many politicians have made comments on Chinese issues and the bilateral relationships between the two countries. Prospective Tory leader David Davies visiting Essex, east of London, said, "Civil rights in China", were "very important", but that "the trade relationship and environmental issues" were also "very important in many ways."
"I would like to see our government take a leaf out of the American government’s book in one respect, and that is for the West to help invest in technology to help countries like China grow but with out environmental impact. We want to see countries which are poorer, like China, develop through trade, I don’t have a problem with trade with China," he said.
He added that human rights should be discussed with President Hu Jintao, saying, "It should probably be the top of the agenda."
Mr Hu will no doubt avoid discussions on human rights during his state visit and concentrate on trade agreements with Britain. He flew into Heathrow on Tuesday afternoon and was greeted by Princess Anne. He was soon in central London where he met the Queen, Tony Blair and other government officials. There were also many demonstrators outside Buckingham Palace to greet him. Many were demanding the independence of Tibet and for human rights to be granted to China’s citizens.
However as issues of human rights in China sit on the table, the British government are attempting to push through anti-terror laws which are seen by many as eroding human rights in the UK. Plans to hold ‘terror suspects’ for 90 days without charge has been criticised by many politicians, from both sides of the house. David Davies said today that the current 14 day period was satisfactory and that he was vehemently opposed to the 90 day custody period. Minor concessions have been offered by Charles Clark, the Home Secretary, including a possible ‘Sunset Clause’. This would provide a review of the bill after a year.
The coverage of the state visit was aired extensively by Sky News and BBC 24 but less coverage was provided by other broadcasters. PCNE [Phoenix Chinese Network TV] provided some live coverage, but CCTV9 continued with normal programming. ITV News and CNN only dipped in occasionally and then for only a few minutes. [BBC]
[15:53 GMT 08/11/2005]