UK Government Faces Backlash Over Approval of Chinese ‘Super-Embassy’
The UK government has sparked outrage by clearing the way for China’s largest embassy in Europe, overriding local opposition and security concerns. The new diplomatic compound, set to be built on the former Royal Mint site in East London, will dwarf Beijing’s current Washington embassy, covering 700,000 square feet. Local residents and politicians fear it will serve as a hub for Chinese espionage, disrupt the surrounding area, and pose a security risk, given its proximity to critical communications infrastructure.
Despite strong objections from the Metropolitan Police and Tower Hamlets Council, the Starmer government took control of the planning decision, ultimately paving the way for approval. The sudden reversal of police opposition—reportedly following government pressure—came shortly after Chancellor Rachel Reeves returned from Beijing and Prime Minister Keir Starmer personally assured Chinese President Xi Jinping of his intervention.
Critics accuse the government of prioritizing diplomatic and economic ties with Beijing over national security, with some warning that the UK risks turning a blind eye to China’s aggressive global tactics.
