China has lodged a formal representation with the UK after British border authorities subjected Chinese citizens to extended questioning and seizures of personal electronic devices, including mobile phones.
According to a statement from China’s embassy in Britain, multiple Chinese nationals – including trade delegates, tourists and people visiting relatives – have experienced long delays, as well as questioning by Border Force officers and confiscation of phones and other devices.
The embassy said that British border officials claimed their actions were carried out in accordance with relevant provisions of the United Kingdom’s Counterterrorism and Border Security Act 2019.
“China expresses serious concern over this and has lodged solemn representations with the British side,” the embassy said, noting that it would continue to urge Britain to stop the arbitrary detention and questioning of Chinese citizens.