Britain has once again delayed its decision on China’s plan to build the largest embassy in Europe, drawing criticism from Beijing. The UK’s Department of Housing said it would now decide by 20 January, rather than 10 December, on whether to approve the project. This marks the third postponement since the proposal was submitted, prolonging an already contentious debate.
China’s proposed embassy would occupy a historic site near the Tower of London, but the project has been stalled for three years following strong opposition from local residents, lawmakers, and Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners. Some British and US politicians have warned that the complex could be used as a base for espionage activities.
Delay Linked to Security Assessment
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the decision was postponed because the interior and foreign ministries had submitted security-related feedback that required careful consideration. “A decision should not be taken until those views have been fully assessed,” the spokesperson said.
China’s embassy in London criticised the move, calling it regrettable. “We strongly urge the UK side to approve our planning application quickly to avoid further undermining mutual trust and cooperation between the two sides,” a spokesperson said.
Political Sensitivity and Security Concerns
The timing is sensitive for Starmer’s government, which has faced questions about its handling of Chinese espionage threats. Critics accused officials of downplaying security risks after the collapse of a trial involving two British men charged with spying for China.
Starmer has warned that China poses “national security threats” to Britain, though he maintains that continued business ties with Beijing remain in the UK’s national interest.
Luke de Pulford, executive director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, said the government’s repeated deferrals were “entirely of its own making.” He added, “Rather than this endless delay, which will only make Beijing more angry, the government should say no and get it over with.”
Local Opposition and Strategic Site
China bought the Royal Mint Court site for the planned embassy in 2018, but its requests for planning permission have been blocked by local councils. Opponents argue that the site’s location is too close to key fibre-optic infrastructure running beneath the area, raising additional security concerns.
Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly urged Starmer last year to intervene, but rising suspicion over Chinese state-linked activities in the UK has complicated the matter further. With the latest delay, tensions between London and Beijing show no sign of easing.
(with inputs from Reuters)
