Peter Wilson

Chinese New Year is a time for people to return to their families. This is probably the largest annual movement of people in the world, with almost 200 million travelling home, mostly by train. This year, some of the migrant workers returning home will not be coming back, as there are fewer jobs for them now. China's economy is still growing fast. But the global slowdown has taken a toll here, and last quarter's growth, annualises at 6.8%, is the slowest for seven years.

We stayed in Beijing. Premier Wen is already in Europe. He has been at Davos, and is coming to the UK soon. So there has been a lot of work to do, for us and for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. But there's also been a bit of time for skating on the frozen lakes behind the Forbidden City, and seeing family and old friends. This year is the Year of the Ox. A sturdy, reliable animal - qualities that we and China will need in 2009.

This year, the Foreign Secretary recorded a New Year's message, with Sir Alex Fergusson, manager of Manchester United Football Club. You can see it on the Embassy's website.

Thanks for all the comments on the strategy, and Fiona's (YL Ting's) Happy New Year. Happy New Year to you too!