Two Australian politicians refused entry to China have said they will not retract their criticisms of the country. Andrew Hastie and James Paterson, both members of the government, were due to go on a study tour in China next month. But their visa applications were rejected, and the Chinese embassy said they could only visit if they were to "genuinely repent" for their comments. Both Mr Hastie and Mr Paterson dismissed the demand. The conservative politicians have been outspoken critics of China - singling out its human rights record, and its alleged interference in Australian politics. A third politician due to go on the tour, Labor MP Matt Keogh, had not been denied a visa, according to think-tank China Matters. There is an ongoing debate about Chinese influence in Australia, with some politicians accusing Beijing of trying to infiltrate Australian politics through donations. Others, however, believe the allegations are fuelling xenophobia and harming relations between the two countries. In a statement after Mr Hastie's and Mr Paterson's visas were refused, a Chinese embassy spokesperson said that they "do not welcome those who make unwarranted attacks" on the country. "As long as the people concerned genuinely repent and redress their mistakes, view China with objectivity and reason, respect China's system and mode of development chosen by the Chinese people, the door of dialogue and exchanges will always remain open," they added. In response, Mr Hastie told local media that he was "disappointed but not surprised" that he had been refused entry to China. "Senator James Paterson and I will not repent, let me be very clear," he said. "We will not repent for standing up for Australian sovereignty, our values, our interests, and standing up for people who can't stand up for themselves." Mr Paterson added: "There won't be any repenting. I'm elected to represent the Australian people — their values, their concerns, their interests. I won't be repenting on the instruction of any foreign power."