World Tibet Network News Thursday, April 09, 1998

London:1 April 1998 - Two activists from Free Tibet Campaign unfurled a Tibetan flag in front of Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji tonight and showered guests at a Reception in his honour with colourful confetti saying 'Free Tibet from Chinese Occupation'. Zhu Rongji was about to address assembled business people at a pre Banquet Reception hosted by the China Britain Trade Group at the City's Guildhall. The display of the Tibetan flag is illegal in Tibet.

"We want a Free Tibet, not Free Trade" said Alison Reynolds, Director of Free Tibet Campaign and one of the two activists. "The Chinese frequently use trade as a mechanism to silence international criticism of its record on human rights. Therefore it is fitting that we turn the tables and use this business occasion to communicate directly to the Chinese Premier our concerns about Tibet" she added. Alison and the other activist, Lorne Stockman were removed and arrested, but later released without charge.

Zhu Rongji and the Chinese Delegation plus other guests at the dinner (the list included Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Minister Without Portfolio Peter Mandelson) were greeted on their arrival at the Guildhall by a colourful, noisy demonstration of Free Tibet campaigners.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair and representatives of the European Union will meet with Zhu Rongji at 10 Downing Street tomorrow. Free Tibet Campaign has criticised the European Union, under the British Presidency, for soft peddling on China's human rights record by deciding not to support a resolution against China at the United Nations, despite no improvements in the situation in Tibet. China has in previous years threatened economic action against European countries who showed support for a resolution. China likewise attempted to blackmail film studio Disney with economic sanctions over the production of the Martin Scorsese picture Kundun about the life of the Dalai Lama which goes on release in London on Friday.