The British government has extended its deadline to decide on China’s proposed new embassy in London, citing unanswered questions about blacked-out sections in planning documents. The final ruling is now expected by October 21, instead of September 9.
China’s plan to build the largest embassy in Europe near the Tower of London has faced opposition for more than three years. Local residents, lawmakers, and Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners argue the embassy could be misused for surveillance. Politicians in both the UK and US have warned the government that approving the project may pose security risks.
Blacked-Out Plans Trigger Scrutiny
The controversy intensified when government officials questioned why parts of the Chinese plans were redacted. DP9, the consultancy representing Beijing, said providing detailed internal layouts was “inappropriate” but insisted that the unredacted drawings gave enough information about the building’s use.
Political and Public Backlash
Luke de Pulford, Executive Director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, called China’s explanation inadequate, saying the assurances amounted to “trust me bro.” Campaigners continue to pressure Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government to block the project, which was initially rejected by the local council in 2022.
China Urges Approval
The Chinese embassy in London expressed “serious concern” over the delay, stressing that host countries have an “international obligation” to support diplomatic construction. In a statement, it urged the UK to approve the application without further delay, dismissing claims about “secret facilities” as “despicable slandering.”
China purchased the Royal Mint Court site in 2018, but planning permission has remained contested ever since. President Xi Jinping previously raised the matter with Prime Minister Starmer, who transferred decision-making power to the central government last year.
