UK-China tensions explode as Beijing accuses protesters of ‘ASSAULTING’ London embassy

In the statement, the China’s ambassador to the UK, Liu Xiaoming said:

“In blatant, flagrant and abominable acts of vandalizing and insult in front of the Chinese Embassy in the UK, a dozen ‘Hong Kong independence’ rioters set fire to the national flag of China, assaulted the main gate of the Embassy building and put up ‘Hong Kong independence’ slogans on the gate.”

He expressed “strong indignation and condemnation” against the “despicable acts” that took place on Thursday.

But the British Government argued that people in the UK have the right to demonstrate their views.

A Government spokesman said: “People in the UK have the right to gather together and to demonstrate their views, provided that they do so within the law.

“The UK takes its obligation to protect diplomatic buildings and personnel seriously.”

The protestors reportedly trampled on and burned several Chinese flags while others threw liquid on the Embassy’s gate and attached anti-Beijing posters.

The demonstrators also allegedly kicked and beat the gate with wooden sticks.

The group chanted the slogans “Hong Kong independence, the only way” and “Liberate Hong Kong; revolution of our times” as well as singing Glory to Hong Kong, the anthems of last year’s Hong Kong protests.