China Rejects British Critics

China accused Britain of meddling hypocrisy yesterday as it fended off domestic and international criticism of its decision to block democratic reform in Hong Kong.

The foreign minister, Li Zhaoxing, said Britain and the United States had no right to interfere in the running of the territory, which was transferred from British colonial rule in 1997.

"We are Chinese," he said when asked about the comments. "Are you clear on that? Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong."

In a private meeting on Monday the standing committee of the National People's Congress ruled out universal suffrage in the elections for the Hong Kong chief executive in 2007 and for all members of the legislature in 2008.

The British government said the decision "seemed inconsistent" with the two countries' joint declaration when sovereignty was returned to China and Hong Kong was guaranteed a high degree of autonomy and opportunities for political reform, beginning in 2007.

Mr Li said it was hypocritical of Britain to call for a widening of the franchise, given the lack of voting rights during the colonial period.

"Do you think Hong Kong was democratic under British rule? Did the British raise concerns about that? Did the Americans raise concerns? No. Why don't you take a look at this double standard?" he said.

People in Hong Kong are still digesting the ruling, which leaves them with no hope of greater democracy in the foreseeable future. Some appear resigned that they can never challenge the mainland, but others are calling for protests to protect what is left of the territory's autonomy.

Emily Lau, leader of the Frontier party, called for a million people to take to the streets on July 1, the anniversary of last year's demonstrations.

"I think people are very upset," she added. "I don't think we support violence. But if people have angry feelings, they should give vent to their feelings. I hope people will not be intimidated into silence."