No 10 says Chinese mega embassy could provide security benefits

The UK government has indicated that plans for a large Chinese embassy in London might provide notable security benefits, even amid concerns raised by critics. The Prime Minister's office emphasized that consolidating China's seven scattered London sites into a single location could improve security, as the decision on planning permission has been postponed for the third time, now expected in the new year.

Opponents of the project have warned that the mega embassy could become a major center for intelligence activity in the heart of London. Nevertheless, the government is anticipated to approve the plans on 20 January. The repeated delays are reportedly intended to allow additional consultation with all parties involved.

In correspondence reviewed by the Interparliamentary Alliance on China, the Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary confirmed they had been working to address "national security issues" linked to the new embassy. Both officials noted that China had agreed to consolidate all accredited diplomats onto a single site if approved, resolving key concerns.

Speaking on Tuesday, the Prime Minister's spokesperson stated that the consolidation would "clearly bring security advantages" for the UK. They added that the Home Office and Foreign Office had provided guidance on specific security considerations and stressed that the planning decision should only be made once all concerns are fully addressed.

If built, the Chinese embassy would become the largest in Europe, accommodating 200 staff, offices, and a substantial basement area. The site, located at Royal Mint Court, lies near fibre optic infrastructure carrying sensitive data to the City of London.

Security concerns were also raised after parts of the embassy blueprints submitted to Tower Hamlets council were redacted. Earlier this year, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner requested clarification on the purpose of these areas, and officials now appear satisfied with the explanations.

The Chinese Embassy has stated that the new complex will foster "mutually beneficial cooperation" between China and the UK, arguing that objections to the location are unwarranted.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer highlighted the challenge of balancing UK-China relations in a speech in London, acknowledging China as a major force in technology, trade, and global governance, while also recognising its national security risks. He emphasized the potential for UK export opportunities in finance, pharmaceuticals, and luxury goods.

MI5 has described Chinese state actors as a daily national security threat, issuing an unusual alert last month regarding two individuals on LinkedIn allegedly targeting MPs and staff, which China has denied.

Shadow housing secretary Sir James Cleverly accused the government of rushing the planning approval "without proper scrutiny," citing potential risks to national security and claiming that even security services were restricted from submitting private evidence.

A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in London expressed frustration over the repeated delays, urging the UK to approve the project promptly to maintain trust and cooperation between the two countries.

Author: Gavin Porter