The new food laws which have been imposed in China are draconian, almost prisoner-based and “epitomise the mentality of Beijing in 2020”, says Sky News host Chris Smith.

“Diners who don’t eat all their food at restaurants in China will be fined under a new law designed to reduce food waste,” Mr Smith said.

“Local governments will be in charge of inspecting plates and ensuring every last crumb has been consumed.”

Mr Smith said the law also bans the publication of videos which “promote gluttony”, such as eating contests.

He also spoke of the prolonged blackouts being experienced by China at the moment, while some cities are recording minus 40-degree temperatures and “can’t turn the heating on”.

“It’s all happening as 70 coal ships remain anchored off the Chinese coast, with a billion dollars of high-quality Australian coal onboard,” he said.

“China is creating a new dark age for its people, literally and figuratively, and you just have to wonder whether something will eventually crack.”