Ministers are facing backlash over proposals for a massive Chinese embassy that includes over 200 underground rooms near vital cables. Bipartisan Members of Parliament are urging the Government to intervene and block the construction of the embassy close to the Tower of London. Recent leaked plans reveal the presence of 208 basement rooms, raising concerns of potential espionage in a tense geopolitical climate.
Sarah Champion, the chair of the International Development Agency, expressed strong opposition, stating that all security briefings label China as a hostile state towards the UK. She emphasized that the proposed mega embassy should not be permitted, citing China’s alleged intimidation tactics towards individuals, including MPs, both domestically and abroad.
A group of nine Labour MPs has written to Communities Secretary Steve Reed, cautioning that the embassy could be exploited to escalate intimidation tactics against dissidents. A decision on the project’s approval is anticipated by January 20, with speculation suggesting that Keir Starmer may confirm its green light.
Opponents, notably the Conservatives, have raised concerns that the embassy could serve as a potential hub for economic warfare. Shadow Home Office minister Alicia Kearns highlighted the proximity of the cables, crucial for the economy, to the proposed embassy. She warned that the Chinese Communist Party could leverage access to these cables for economic aggression against the UK.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook refrained from commenting on the ongoing case, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach towards China. While acknowledging the security threats posed by China, he underscored the economic opportunities presented by the nation as a key trading partner. The government aims to strike a balance between economic engagement and national security concerns.
Reports suggest that the approval announcement for the embassy could coincide with an anticipated visit by the Prime Minister to China, marking the first such visit since 2018. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper have indicated that their reservations regarding the embassy application have been addressed, with China agreeing to consolidate its diplomats onto the new embassy site, streamlining operations currently spread across seven locations in London.
Government officials have contended that the proposed embassy would bring security benefits to the UK.