Ministers are facing backlash over proposals for a large Chinese embassy that includes over 200 underground rooms situated near vital cables. Concerned MPs from various political parties are urging the Government to intervene in preventing the construction of this embassy near the Tower of London. Recent leaked plans revealed the presence of 208 basement rooms, raising fears of potential espionage amidst escalating tensions.
Labour’s Sarah Champion, who heads the International Development Agency, emphasized the UK’s security reports labeling China as a hostile state. She strongly opposed the establishment of this massive embassy, citing concerns about China’s aggressive behavior towards the UK and advocating for measures to curb such actions rather than rewarding them with a new embassy.
Nine Labour MPs have written to Communities Secretary Steve Reed expressing concerns that the embassy could be utilized to increase intimidation against dissidents. A decision on the project’s approval is anticipated by January 20, with speculations suggesting Keir Starmer will announce its green light.
The Conservative Party warned that the proposed mega-embassy could serve as a platform for economic warfare. Shadow Home Office minister Alicia Kearns highlighted the risks associated with the embassy’s proximity to crucial cables essential for the UK’s economy, potentially enabling the Chinese Communist Party to launch economic attacks.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook refrained from commenting on the ongoing case, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach towards China that considers both threats and economic opportunities. The approval of the embassy, as reported by The Times, is expected to precede 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 concerns regarding the embassy application have been addressed, with China agreeing to consolidate its diplomats in London onto the new site. Downing Street has previously highlighted the potential security benefits that the embassy could bring to the UK.