Chinese in UK happy with 'rational choice'

Chinese companies, communities and students in the United Kingdom welcomed the results of the Scottish referendum after voters rejected a breakup of the UK.

They said China's businesses and its people will benefit more from Scotland having a united and stable economic and social system.

"Having a bigger market is better for the development of investors and companies, including Chinese businesses," said Lin Ning, chief representative of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade in the UK.

"There are many Chinese companies that are based in London and do business in the whole UK. The breakup of the UK would mean different tax policies, and visas and so on, which would add more costs and trouble for Chinese companies," Lin said.

Lin, who studied in Scotland, said he can understand why people would want the referendum. "But, finally, the Scottish people made the rational choice, which I think is more beneficial for Scotland and the UK."

James Hunter Johnston, marketing manager of a fully owned UK subsidiary of Chinese lighting giant NVC, said: "As a business operating within the UK, of course we would respect the wishes of the people. ... However, I think it's fair to say that a 'No' vote probably does make things a little bit simpler. A 'Yes' vote would add a little bit of complexity because there potentially could have been restrictions on the movement of goods or maybe different taxes in Scotland compared with the rest of the UK."

Investors in British financial markets breathed a sigh of relief on Friday. Stocks rose, and the British currency hit a two-year high against the euro.

Chuting Tang, chair & president of London Chinatown Chinese Association, said: "A stable political system, a strong defense, leading to a prosperous economy will benefit all in the country."

Joseph Wu, a media professional in London, said many Chinese businessmen in the UK were against a breakup. Many Chinese in Scotland who had the right to vote made their views known, he said.

"There were a lot of uncertainties with the breakup that would have had long-term consequences. Many British Chinese people prefer a stable economic environment and voted to stay in the union. The high turnout shows that they are no longer just a passive, silent community," Wu said.

Wang Hua, 29, a female Chinese student at the University of Glasgow, watched the returns come in throughout the night and updated information on her WeChat account.

Wei Luna, 25, another University of Glasgow student, said: "I don't think the result comes as a surprise. ... Personally, I am happy that Scotland remains part of the UK, and I can still visit London without a visa."

Deng Yajun in Glasgow and Carolynn Look in London contributed to this story.

zhangchunyan@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 09/20/2014 page11)