A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry has said China strongly condemns the United Kingdom for the "political farce" involving the arrest and indictment of Chinese citizens on ungrounded charges.

Addressing a regular press briefing in Beijing on Friday, Lin Jian said that the British actions represent a blatant abuse of law and a manipulation of judicial procedures with the aim of supporting anti-China forces.

Lin added that China has made solemn representations to the UK, urging it to immediately correct its mistakes, cease political manipulation and stop emboldening those who seek to destabilize Hong Kong and undermine China's interests.