This isn’t just about getting a scalp or an opposition win, this is about a very bad signal sent to China that, in a bid to stay ‘onside’ with trade and co-operation, with this government tricky demands will somehow just fall China’s way.
If Sunak really is serious about a post-Uxbridge buttering up of motorists, scrapping the 2030 target would not be a bad place to start.
Whether it is foreigners at risk in China from the regime’s injustice – and “hostage diplomacy” – or the threat to our institutions at home, we need to wake up to the dangers of the Beijing dragon.
The visit by Xi Jinping to Moscow last week underscored the threat to democratic nations of expansionist tyrants who believe it their mission, even their right, to overwhelm and overcome their smaller neighbours.
Unfortunately for the Prime Minister, he looks set to be left banging the drum for free trade just as the rest of the world is changing its tune.
The Prime Minister must learn from his predecessor and condemn Beijing’s hostile activity.
It is clear that a comprehensive international strategy is required to hold Beijing to account.
The international community must set out consequences for Beijing’s flagrant breaches of international treaties.
If nothing is done, we fear the pig industry is heading towards collapse, which would affect tens of thousands of jobs.
Without China and India onboard, the ability to tackle climate change will become a losing battle.
We need to focus on developing our brightest and most talented people, in a range of different fields, from a young age.
Three decades on, the regime’s character has not changed – but its tactics have become more sophisticated.
The harrowing personal story of Jihyun Park, followed by her selection as a Tory candidate in Bury, puts current political obsessions in perspective.
The Defence Secretary hits back at the idea of the UK not doing enough. “Trade is a lever. It helps us help change behaviours of countries.”
If Labour continues to kowtow to Beijing, it will not only betray our allies and our values, it will also betray the British people. Britain must draw a firm line: engagement – yes, subservience, never.