Access denied to activist's trial

Authorities barred diplomats from the United States and other countries from attending the trial last night of a high-profile Chinese dissident who has called for sweeping political reforms and an end to Communist Party dominance.

The trial two days before Christmas is the latest example of authorities taking action against top activists around major holidays, rights groups said.

Liu, detained a year ago, is accused of inciting to subvert state power.

The charge is routinely used to jail dissidents and carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison.

A verdict was expected tomorrow.