Scott Morrison warns it would be ‘utterly unacceptable’ for China to hit back at Olympics boycott with economic and political punishments

Scott Morrison has issued a direct warning to China as the announcement of an Olympics boycott ramps-up tensions between Canberra and Beijing.

Before his announcement concluded, Scott Morrison issued a direct warning to Beijing about it’s reaction to Australia’s decision. Picture: AFP

The Prime Minister has issued a grave warning to China following the announcement of Australia’s diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics, cautioning the volatile superpower not to lash out in response.

On Wednesday, Scott Morrison declared Australian athletes would still attend the games, but all officials and politicians would remain at home.

Mr Morrison cited human rights concerns in China as the reason for his decision.

But before his announcement concluded, the PM issued a direct warning to Beijing about it’s reaction to Australia’s decision.

When asked whether the government was worried about economic or political pushback from the Chinese Government for joining the boycott, Mr Morrison insisted it would be “completely and utterly unacceptable” for Beijing to make such as move.

“There would be no grounds for that whatsoever,” he said.

“I'll always stand up for Australia’s interests and what Australians believe is right and we are living in an uncertain time.”

Scott Morrison said it would be ‘completely and utterly unacceptable’ for China to retaliate to Australia decision to boycott the Beijing Olympics with economic or political punishments.Picture: NCA NewsWire / Damian Shaw

China slapped tariffs of up to 218 per cent on Australian wine, beef and barley earlier this year in retaliation to Australia’s questions over the origins of coronavirus and criticism of China’s human rights abuses.

But Mr Morrison insisted he would not budge in his decision despite the potential for China to hit back with even harsher economic punishments.

“I won't be taking a step back. I’ll continue to stand strong as our Government will for Australia and everything we believe in,” he said.

“There are no compromises on that and nor should there be.”

Beijing slapped tariffs of up to 218 per cent on Australian wine, beef and barley earlier this year in retaliation to Australia’s questions over the origins of coronavirus and criticism of China’s human rights abuses. Picture: LI XUEREN / XINHUA / Xinhua via AFP

Mr Morrison’s firm words come as China has issued a concerning threat to the US after President Joe Biden announced his country would also be boycotting the Winter Olympics on Monday.

Beijing’s foreign affairs spokesman Zhao Lijian warned Mr Biden that the move could seriously harm bilateral relations.

“China expresses strong dissatisfaction and is strongly opposed to the US position,” Mr Zhao said.

“China has lodged solemn representations to the US will make resolute counter measures.

China’s foreign affairs spokesman warned Joe Biden that the US’s boycott of the Beijing Olympics could seriously harm bilateral relations. Picture: MANDREL NGAN / AFP

Mr Zhao slammed Mr Biden for “politicising” the event, insisting Mr Biden’s plan was “doomed to fail”.

“The US’s wrongdoings have destroyed the foundation and atmosphere of China-US sports exchanges and Olympic co-operation,” he said.

“The US is shooting itself in the foot and should recognise the consequences of these mistakes.”