Will the government's stance on China affect the next election?

In the wake of the Prime Minister's decision to impose a diplomatic boycott on the Beijing Olympics, some Liberals are fearful about how the government's anti-China rhetoric could impact on key federal seats at the next election.

Gladys Liu speaking at a media conference in Melbourne. Source: SBS

The fears have been raised as the parties continue to campaign.

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

Highlights

• In the wake of the Olympic boycott, Liberal sources have raised concerns the government's anti-China rhetoric is alienating some Chinese Australian voters.
• There is a strong feeling among sections of the Chinese-Australian community that those speaking about war are, quote, "completely off their rocker".
• Some argue that Australia could have taken a stand on China's human rights abuses without joining the Olympic boycott.

---