Chinese Embassy in UK urges citizens to be vigilant over British border checks

The Chinese Embassy in the UK has issued a notice calling on Chinese citizens to be vigilant when crossing the British border, following a series of cases in which travelers were detained for extended periods, questioned by UK border enforcement officers, and had their mobile phones and other personal electronic devices they were carrying seized.

Those affected include members of Chinese business delegations visiting the UK, people making private visits to see relatives, and ordinary tourists, according to the notice issued on Tuesday.

The UK border officers claimed they were acting under relevant provisions of the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019, it added.

China has expressed grave concern over the cases and has lodged stern representations with the UK side. It will continue to urge the UK to stop the arbitrary detention and questioning of Chinese citizens and will do all it can to safeguard the personal safety and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens in the UK.

The embassy advised Chinese citizens already in the UK or planning to visit to heighten their awareness of personal safety, protect their property and privacy, and learn about relevant UK regulations and practices so as to avoid inconvenience and loss when crossing the British border.

Chinese citizens in the UK in need of consular assistance may call the consular protection and assistance hotlines of the Chinese embassy and consulates general in the UK or the 24-hour global emergency hotline for consular protection and services of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.