China executes Akmal Shaikh

China has executed Akmal Shaikh, a 53-year-old Briton, for smuggling heroin, prompting a diplomatic furore.

Gordon Brown said he was “appalled and disappointed that our persistent requests for clemency have not been granted.” China has hit back by arguing that “it is the common wish of people around the world to strike against the crime of drug trafficking” and adding China’s “strong dissatisfaction and opposition to the British Government’s unreasonable criticism of the case.”

Which side is right? Do you share Mr Brown’s abhorrence at the death of a man who, according to family, was suffering from bipolar disorder? Or does China have the right to deal with British offenders on its soil as it sees fit? Is Britain too soft on drug dealers?