Plans for a Chinese mega embassy in London could bring “security advantages,” according to the prime minister’s official spokesperson, despite security concerns raised by opponents.
Downing Street highlighted the security benefit of consolidating China’s seven current locations across the capital, as the decision date for planning permission was delayed for a third time, now into the new year.
Concerns have been voiced that a Chinese mega embassy, if approved, could become a significant hub for espionage in central London.
However, the government is expected to make a decision on the embassy project by January 20th of the coming year.
This marks the third postponement of a decision on the embassy, reportedly to allow more time for consultation with all relevant parties.
In a letter obtained by the Interparliamentary Alliance on China, a group opposing the plan, the Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary stated they have been working to address “national security issues” associated with the new embassy.
Shabana Mahmood and Yvette Cooper indicated that their concerns had been resolved, as China agreed to relocate all its accredited diplomats in London to a single site if the project is approved.
On Tuesday, the Prime Minister’s official spokesperson stated that consolidation would “clearly bring security advantages” for the UK.
“Should the planning decision for a new embassy be approved, the new embassy would replace seven different sites which currently comprises China’s diplomatic footprint in London, which clearly brings security advantages,” he said.
He added that the Home Office and Foreign Office had “provided views on particular security implications, and have been clear throughout that a decision shouldn’t be taken until we affirm that those considerations have been completed or resolved.”
If the plans proceed, the Chinese embassy would be the largest in Europe, accommodating 200 staff, offices, and a sizable basement area.
The proposed site, on Royal Mint Court, is located near fiber optic cables that transmit large volumes of sensitive data to the City of London.
Concerns arose when planning documents submitted to Tower Hamlets council contained sections of the blueprints that were blacked out and labeled “redacted for security reasons.”
Earlier this year, then-Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner gave China two weeks to clarify the purpose of these rooms, and officials now appear satisfied.
The Chinese Embassy in the UK has previously stated that the new complex would enhance “mutually beneficial cooperation” between China and Britain, with officials dismissing objections to the site as unjustified.
In a speech outlining his foreign affairs priorities in the City of London on Monday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the difficult balancing act of UK-China relations.
Acknowledging China’s role as a “defining force in technology, trade and global governance” while acknowledging the “reality” that it “poses national security threats,” Sir Keir expressed his desire to capitalize on potential export opportunities in finance, pharmaceuticals, and luxury goods.
The head of MI5 has described Chinese state actors as a daily national security threat to the UK. Last month, the security service issued an unusual espionage alert regarding two named Chinese profiles on LinkedIn targeting MPs and parliamentary staff, allegations which China has denied.
Shadow housing secretary Sir James Cleverly accused Labour of trying to “steamroller” planning approval through “without proper scrutiny” and despite “the danger it poses to Britain’s national security” because ministers do not have the “backbone to stand up to China”.
“Throughout this process ministers have sought to suppress criticism of the embassy plans,” he said.
“Even our security services have been prevented from submitting private evidence to the inquiry.
“The government must now ensure they can submit their concerns, via a private hearing, safe from the eyes of the regime in Beijing, and it is essential that the authorities have access to the full, unredacted drawings hidden by the Chinese government.”
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