China vowed today to ramp up its controversial “patriotic education” campaign for monks even though the latest deadly protests in Tibetan areas were sparked by deep resentment over its enforcement.

Fresh violence has broken out in a troubled Tibetan region of western China, leaving at least one government official seriously injured.

CHINESE President Hu Jintao presided over the re-lighting of the Olympic torch yesterday in the host city, signalling the start of an around-the-world torch relay that already has become a magnet for protesters.

Angry Tibetan exiles may try to disrupt the Olympic torch relay through London if China continues its crackdown on protesters in Tibet, a campaigner warned today.

Oil giant Shell was today expected to become the latest energy group to come under pressure from environmentalists over its exploration policies.