‘Getting tough' on China makes headlines, but abroad nobody cares what Johnson says | Simon Jenkins

Most countries do not feel the need to pontificate about the failings of others. Change comes from within, not without

Boris Johnson was last week pressed by senior Conservatives to take a tougher stance against China" on Uighurs, Hong Kong and human rights. What this means is obscure.

A British foreign secretary reaches his office each day amid images of imperial might. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is a gallery of murals of Pax Britannica, foreign victories, dazzling potentates, cowering enemies and grateful native peoples. By the time the minister's feet are under his desk, he must feel the world is straining for his command.