China, UK in war of words over pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong

China on Wednesday lodged a diplomatic protest with the UK over Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt's remarks on the unprecedented pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, asserting that he was basking in the glory of "faded British colonialism" and "obsessed" with lecturing others.

UK Foreign Secretary Hunt has been expressing strong support to the demonstrators in the former British colony protesting against a controversial extradition law, which the people of Hong Kong apprehend could be used to send political dissidents from the territory to mainland China for prosecution.

The protest intensified on Monday when demonstrators stormed the Legislative Council (LegCo) building in the city, left anti-Beijing graffiti on the walls such as "Hong Kong is not China", and hung the colonial-era flag.

While recognising that Hong Kong is part of China, Hunt on Tuesday asserted that the 1997 declaration under which London handed over Hong Kong to Beijing is still legally binding.

He warned of "serious consequences" if Beijing neglected its commitments and supress pro-democracy protests.

Britain handed over Hong Kong to China on July 1, 1997 under a one country, two systems formula which allows freedoms such as freedom of speech, right to protest and an independent judiciary not enjoyed by the people in mainland China.

Reacting to Hunt's remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, Geng Shuang told the media here that we deplore and firmly oppose Hunt's wrong remarks. We have made stern representations (diplomatic protests) to the British side in Beijing and in London. We urge British side to stop making such wrong remarks and stop interfere in Hong Kong's and China's internal affairs."