Ministers are under fire for proposed plans to construct a large Chinese embassy that includes over 200 underground rooms near essential cables. The revelation of these plans has sparked concerns about potential espionage in a time of heightened tensions.
Cross-party Members of Parliament are calling on the Government to intervene and block the approval of this embassy, located in close proximity to the Tower of London. Labour’s Sarah Champion, head of the International Development Agency, has strongly opposed the construction, citing security briefings that label China as a hostile state. She emphasized the need to prevent the establishment of what she referred to as a “mega embassy.”
A group of nine Labour MPs has written to Communities Secretary Steve Reed expressing worries that the embassy could be utilized to intimidate dissidents. A decision on the project’s fate is expected by January 20, with reports hinting that Keir Starmer may announce its approval.
The Conservative Party has raised concerns about the potential for economic warfare linked to the embassy. Shadow Home Office minister Alicia Kearns highlighted the risk posed by the embassy’s proximity to critical cables that carry sensitive data essential to the UK economy.
In response to these concerns, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook refrained from commenting on the ongoing case but emphasized the need for a consistent approach towards China. He acknowledged the threats posed by China to national security while also recognizing the economic opportunities presented by the country.
Reports suggest that the embassy’s approval announcement may coincide with an anticipated visit to China by the Prime Minister. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper have stated that their concerns have been addressed, with China agreeing to consolidate its diplomats in London to the new site.
The government has previously indicated that the embassy’s establishment could bring security benefits to the UK.