As the British government prepares to make a decision on China’s proposed mega embassy in London, the saga has been a source of ongoing tension in UK-China relations. The application, first made in 2018, has been a contentious issue, with local authorities initially rejecting the plans before the government stepped in to reconsider the matter.
The proposed embassy, which would be China’s largest in Europe, has sparked concerns about national security and the potential for increased espionage activities. However, officials in Beijing have made the embassy a priority, with President Xi Jinping raising the matter directly with Prime Minister Keir Starmer during their first phone call in 2024.
The £255 million deal to purchase the Royal Mint Court site near the Tower of London was brokered by a close aide to former Prime Minister Boris Johnson when he was Foreign Secretary. This has led to accusations of political influence in the process, which has been further complicated by the involvement of local authorities.
Despite opposition from MPs across the political spectrum, the security services believe they can manage the risks posed by the enlarged embassy site, which is located near crucial data cables serving the City of London. The decision, expected on Monday or Tuesday, is seen as a key factor in smoothing relations before Starmer’s anticipated visit to China at the end of January.
However, the issue is far from settled. Local residents and members of the Chinese diaspora, including Hongkongers, Tibetans, and Uyghurs, have partnered to challenge any approval through legal action, citing concerns about the enlarged Chinese presence in London.
Experts have warned that the embassy issue could become a “perpetual sore” in UK-China relations, with the need for a consistent and robust government position to navigate the complex diplomatic landscape. As the decision looms, both British and Chinese officials are holding their breath, hoping that the outcome will unlock further cooperation between the two countries.
