Chinese mega-embassy in UK approved

The UK has given the green light to China's £255 million embassy project in London despite fierce opposition.

The UK has approved China’s application to build its largest European embassy in London despite opposition and espionage fears. The decision clears the way for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to visit Beijing next week, the Financial Times reports.

The proposed embassy will be built on the former Royal Mint site near the Tower of London, which China purchased for £255 million in 2018. Critics warned it could serve as a spying hub because sensitive data cables from the City of London run nearby.

Security measures implemented

Communities secretary Steve Reed said the Home Office and Foreign Office had not raised concerns about the cables. Foreign Office minister Seema Malhotra said UK security agencies had “been involved throughout” and “a range of measures have been developed to protect national security”.

Reed placed restrictions on certain rooms not being allowed for “overnight accommodation”. China submitted 43 revised drawings of the 52 originally marked as redacted.

Political reaction

Conservative shadow communities secretary Sir James Cleverly called the decision a “disgraceful act of cowardice”. And criticised Starmer’s “desperate desire for Beijing’s approval”.

Officials privately acknowledge the UK has long wanted to rebuild its own embassy in Beijing. But is unlikely to receive approval without authorising the London embassy.

Starmer is expected to become the first British prime minister to visit China in eight years.