Pro-Tibet protesters hit Chinese exhibition in UK

An exhibition of China’s Terracotta Warriors in London was today targeted by protesters, who hung pro-Tibetan slogans around statues’ necks.

Visitors at the British Museum applauded as 50-year-old Martin Wyness and 47-year-old Mark Trepte put placards on the warriors, saying “Stop killing Tibetans” and “Boycott the Chinese Olympics”.

The two men, both from Hereford in the UK, decided to mount the protest after hearing about demonstrations in Tibet against the Chinese government, which turned violent over the weekend.

Mr Wyness said he wanted people in Britain to be aware of the ongoing brutality in Tibet.

“I was amazed that the bulk of people clapped when I did it, showing the British public is already behind Tibetans,” he said.

“I want athletes to boycott the Olympics. Human life is more important than sport.”

Mr Trepte said he wanted people to think very carefully about the face China is showing the world.

“I have become so concerned about the situation and wanted to show solidarity towards the Tibetans who are opposing China,” he said.

“But it’s the first time I’ve done anything like this.”