Tensions between the United Kingdom and China have escalated after Beijing issued a strong warning over the British government’s delay in approving its proposed “mega embassy” in London.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “grave concern and strong dissatisfaction” after Housing Secretary Steve Reed postponed his final decision on the embassy plans until 10 December.
The dispute adds fresh strain to Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s efforts to reset relations with Beijing, which have already been affected by allegations of Chinese espionage in the UK.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian criticised Britain for showing “disregard for contractual spirit, acting in bad faith and without integrity.” He warned that the UK should “immediately fulfil its obligations and honour its commitments otherwise the British side shall bear all consequences.”
A spokesperson for the prime minister dismissed China’s claims, saying: “Protecting the UK’s national security is our first duty. This is a planning process independent of the rest of government.”
Beijing bought the proposed site near the Tower of London for £255 million in 2018. However, Tower Hamlets Council rejected the plans in 2022 over local concerns, leading to years of negotiation and multiple delays. The process was further stalled when China redacted parts of its proposal, citing security reasons.
The new delay comes amid heightened tensions over two British citizens previously accused of spying for China, a case that later collapsed but reignited concerns about Beijing’s intelligence activities in the UK.
Labour MP Matt Western, chair of the joint committee on national security, urged the government not to approve the project, warning that the location posed “eavesdropping risks in peacetime and sabotage risks in a crisis” due to its proximity to vital communications infrastructure.
Downing Street said the delay was due to the complexity of the planning application rather than political interference. A spokesperson explained that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government needed “more time for full consideration of the applications.”
The dispute over the embassy site highlights the growing diplomatic tension between London and Beijing as the UK attempts to balance national security with economic cooperation and foreign investment.
