Australian PM rejects Chinese criticism of nuclear sub deal

Chinese ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson Zhao Lijian said it was 'highly irresponsible' for the US and Britain to export the nuclear technology

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Illinois. Picture: US Navy/AP

Australia’s prime minister Scott Morrison has rejected Chinese criticism of Australia’s new nuclear submarine alliance with the United States – and said he does not mind that US president Joe Biden might have forgotten his name.

China reacted angrily when Mr Biden, Mr Morrison and Prime Minister Boris Johnson used a virtual news conference this week to announce a trilateral defence alliance that will provide Australia with a fleet of at least eight nuclear-powered submarines.