China News Service, Beijing, March 3 (Reporter Zhang Weiran) Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin hosted a regular press conference on March 3.
A reporter asked: According to a report by the US CNBC News Network on the 2nd, the British Home Office survey results show that some Hong Kong BNO (that is, British National (Overseas) passport) holders believe that the cost of immigration is quite high.
According to sources, many Hong Kong professionals are being "over-qualified" in the UK and are only temporarily employed in low-skilled jobs.
And in most cases, Hong Kong BNO holders cannot enjoy social benefits.
What is the spokesperson's comment on this?
Wang Wenbin: The British side manipulated the so-called new BNO passport policy, and some Hong Kong people who were deceived left their homes, but after arriving in the UK they became "second-class citizens" with lack of protection of rights and interests. Is the British side's purpose to "protect" Hong Kong people, or to create chaos Hong Kong, I believe everyone can see it clearly.
China has stated its position on the BNO issue many times, and we have already announced that we will no longer recognize the so-called BNO passport as a valid travel document and identity proof.
The ins and outs of this issue are clear.
The British side, holding on to its old colonial dream, went back on its promises, grossly interfered in China's internal affairs, and seriously violated international law and basic norms governing international relations. We express our strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition.
We urge the UK to stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs, otherwise it will only shoot itself in the foot.
(over)