The UK has agreed to talks with China over the amount of direct flights between the two.

This announcement looks to improve connections by early next year and follows a recent visit to China by transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin, the first politician to do so in two years.

An agreement from 2004 currently limits each country's airlines to 31 return services each week between six destinations - a newly sought deal will aim to increase both flight volumes and destination choices.

Mr McLoughlin said: "Improved air links between the UK and China would be good for trade, tourism and forging new partnerships, strengthening the links between our two countries."

As part of ongoing cooperation, a memorandum of understanding with Chinese transport minister Yang Chuantang, was also signed, allowing the UK to share technical knowledge and expertise with the country. This, the Department for Transport claims, will encourage investment and allow British firms to become more involved with Chinese infrastructure projects.