China merits market economy status: UK

Britain urged the EU to grant market economy status to China, recognition to help Beijing avoid and fight anti-dumping measures, the Financial Times said, interviewing Ian Pearson, UK minister of state for trade visiting Beijing. The UK endorsement coincides with increased concerns in Europe about China's manufacturing and exporting power in clothing and other low-cost goods. The UK took over the rotating presidency of the EU this month, and Pearson pointed out that Russia was granted market economy status in 2002.