I doubt that people in China heard more than one message, which of course would be the Government's message. There probably wouldn't have been many/any experts on their TV channels being invited to analyse and challenge the 'official' view. It goes against everything I believe in with regard to free speech and a free society, but Chinese officials might argue that this clear message and the (relatively) unquestioning obedience of their people enabled them to turn the tide. Very slippery slope though...

