Osborne hails 'momentous progress' in UK-China links
George Osborne hailed the "momentous progress" in links between the UK and China as he set out his ambitions for the City of London to be the major offshore hub for trade in the Chinese currency.
Chinese visitors to UK to be offered new visa service
All Chinese visitors to the UK will be offered a new streamlined visa service ensuring it is "easier than ever before" to see what the country has to offer.
A pilot scheme was launched last year for tour operators allowing them to work from a single form in processing UK visa applications, and the programme will now be extended to all visitors.
A new 24-hour visa service will also be launched to Chinese visitors in August, while 12 visa application centres are set to open across China in a bid to reduce waiting times for applicants.
"The number of Chinese people coming to Britain to visit and do business is soaring," Home Secretary Theresa May said.
"They already enjoy a first-rate visa service and these changes will ensure it is easier than ever before to visit the UK and see first-hand everything this great country has to offer."
More top news
-
Cardiff stabbing victims were Matalan workers
Matalan said: "It is with great sadness we can confirm...both victims worked at our Cardiff branch."
-
Ben Needham: Picture taken in 1991 could hold key clue
Police believe a tree currently growing near the farmhouse where the 21-month-old toddler was last seen in 1991 was not there at the time.
-
Venomous spider bites Australian man on penis again
The 21-year-old was using a portable toilet in Sydney when he was bitten near to the same area as in a previous incident in April.