The UK government has pushed back a crucial decision on whether to approve a vast new Chinese embassy complex in London for a third time, with a final verdict now expected in the new year.
Decision Pushed to January Amid Security Scrutiny
Housing Secretary Steve Reed has announced a further delay, moving the decision date from 10 December to 20 January 2025. According to a letter from the planning inspectorate seen by Sky News, Reed stated he required more time to consider fresh submissions from the Foreign Office and the Home Office.
This marks the third postponement under the current Labour administration. Reed, who took up his role in September, had already delayed a decision originally slated for October. An earlier delay was also instituted by his predecessor, Angela Rayner.
The proposed embassy, designed by David Chipperfield Architects, would be the largest Chinese diplomatic mission in Europe. It is planned for a site near the Tower of London, an application initially rejected by Tower Hamlets Council in 2022.
National Security at the Heart of the Debate
The project has been mired in controversy, sparking significant protests from groups who fear the complex could become a spy hub for Chinese intelligence operations across Europe. Hong Kong dissidents now living in the UK have voiced specific anxieties, pointing to sections of the architectural plans where basements have been greyed out and marked 'for security reasons'.
In a bid to alleviate these concerns, the Chinese government has reportedly committed to consolidating all its diplomatic premises in London, excluding the ambassador's residence, onto the new site. This assurance was detailed in a letter from the home and foreign secretaries.
Despite the public fears, it is understood that the UK's security services, MI5 and MI6, have not raised objections to the current plans and are expected to support approval.
Political Pressure and Diplomatic Tensions
The delay comes amidst heightened rhetoric on UK-China relations. Just a day before the postponement was announced, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned that China presents 'real national security threats to the United Kingdom', while advocating for a consistent and serious approach to diplomacy.
Luke de Pulford, executive director of the Inter Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), criticised the government's handling of the issue. 'This is the third delay, and entirely of the government's own making,' he said. 'Residents and dissidents have endured months of dithering as the government tries to choose between UK national security and upsetting Beijing.'
The Chinese embassy in London has responded sharply to Sir Keir's comments, accusing him of making 'groundless accusations' and interfering in China's internal affairs. A spokesman stated China 'firmly opposes the erroneous remarks' and asserted that the country's development poses no threat but offers opportunities for common growth.
The final decision, now scheduled for 20 January, will conclude a protracted planning saga that sits at the complex intersection of international diplomacy, urban development, and global espionage concerns.
