Beijing warns Canberra against interfering over detention of Australian writer

The Federal Government has been warned by China not to interfere over the detention of Chinese Australian writer Yang Hengjun.

Chinese authorities have held Dr Yang for three years on espionage charges. Following a one-day trial, he is awaiting a verdict that has been delayed until April.

Family and friends of Dr Yang are concerned he is suffering major health problems.

READ MORE: Three dead, homes destroyed as Tonga volcano tsunami labelled 'unprecedented disaster'

But following calls by Foreign Minister Marise Payne for his immediate release, a Chinese government spokesman warned Australia against interfering with its "judicial sovereignty".

China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian insisted Dr Yang was being treated fairly.

"China's judicial organs handle the case in strict accordance with law and fully protect the lawful rights and interests of Yang Hengjun," Mr Zhao said yesterday.

"China firmly opposes Australia's unreasonable obstruction in China's handling of the case in accordance with law and gross interference in China's judicial sovereignty."

READ MORE: PM urges parents to disregard 'dangerous messages' from Nationals MP George Christensen

Ms Payne yesterday told 2GB radio yesterday the Federal Government was concerned for Dr Yang and called for his release.

"Neither he nor the Australian Government have been given details as to the charges against him or of the investigation, so it certainly falls into the category of arbitrary detention."

"We are concerned about his health and we've been consistently clear that he needs to be provided with the necessary treatment for both his physical and his mental health."