With the Olympics just about to begin in China, much of the commentary has revolved around oppression of human rights, the restrictive legal regime and pollution. This mood was reflected in George Bush’s speech in which he stated: "America stands in firm opposition to China’s detention of political dissidents, human rights advocates and religious activists."

Whilst it remains illegal to hold demonstrations in China, special areas have been designated for legal protest in parts of Bejing. However, despite all this, here’s a lesson in real protest for those who consider themselves downtrodden British travellers:

“Scores of Chinese air passengers smashed computers and desks and clashed with police Tuesday after a night stranded at an airport without accommodation, state media said.

The passengers clashed with airport police Tuesday morning, smashing computers and desks, Xinhua said, blaming the melee on China Southern staff’s “inappropriate working attitude.”

At around 2 a.m., many of the passengers – including toddlers and people over 60 – took taxis to a hotel where China Southern said they could stay, only to be turned away once they arrived, Xinhua said.

Frustration at mysterious delays, diversions and cancellations have at times boiled over into violence at Chinese airports as passengers try to storm grounded aircraft and police are brought in to keep the peace.

There have also been cases in which passengers, after delayed arrivals, have refused to get off the planes in protest.

Looks like Terminal 5 got off lightly…

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