Chinese Embassy in UK urges Chinese nationals to exercise caution over British border checks

LONDON -- The Chinese Embassy in the UK has urged Chinese nationals to exercise caution when entering or leaving Britain, as a number of Chinese nationals were detained and questioned for prolonged periods during Britain's border checks.

Their mobile phones and other electronic devices were checked and confiscated, according to a notice issued on Monday by the Chinese Embassy in the UK.

The cases involved members of Chinese business delegations visiting Britain, Chinese nationals visiting relatives in Britain, and ordinary Chinese tourists.

The embassy has, in the notice, reminded Chinese nationals in Britain or planning to travel in Britain to enhance their awareness of personal safety and take good care of their personal property and privacy, while paying attention to Britain's relevant regulations and practices.

Britain's border enforcement officers claimed they were acting under provisions of the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019.

According to the embassy, China has expressed serious concern and lodged stern representations with the British government, and will continue to urge Britain to stop arbitrary detention and questioning of Chinese nationals. China will work to safeguard the safety and lawful rights and interests of its citizens in Britain.