US Politicians Warn UK Government About Serious Security Risks Posed by China’s Proposed Mega-Empassy in London

China’s plans to build a massive new embassy in London have raised alarms, with US politicians warning of serious security risks.

The proposed embassy is set to be constructed on a 600,000-square-foot plot on the site of the former Royal Mint, which is located directly across from the historic Tower of London.

The project has caused growing concerns, especially regarding potential espionage and surveillance issues.

Despite being rejected in 2022, the project has resurfaced, prompting increased scrutiny from both local and international figures.

Pressure Mounts to Block the Mega-Empassy Project

A recent statement from the US Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, chaired by Republican John Moolenaar, called for urgent action to address the security concerns.

This marks the first time foreign politicians have publicly pressured the UK’s Labour government to halt the project.

In their statement, the committee emphasized the risks the embassy could pose to London’s national security, particularly around sensitive areas like financial services.

They urged both the UK government and its allies to act swiftly to protect their interests.

The Revival of the Controversial Embassy Plans

Beijing’s plan for the embassy involves constructing its largest diplomatic mission in Europe, complete with offices, 225 residential units, and a cultural exchange center.

The Chinese government purchased the land six years ago for £255 million, but its initial proposal was rejected due to concerns from the local community.

However, after last July’s general election, the Chinese government resubmitted the same plans, raising suspicions that they may be testing the waters with the new Labour administration.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper have shown support for the project, while the Metropolitan Police have now withdrawn their objections, despite initially expressing concerns.

Critics Speak Out Against the Embassy Plans

Former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith has strongly criticized the proposal, describing it as a “kowtow” project in a historic location.

He argued that placing the embassy opposite the Tower of London, with 200 British citizens working on-site, is a grave mistake.

He suggested that the Labour government is pushing forward with the project to appease China and accused them of manipulating the planning process.

Duncan Smith pointed out that intelligence services, police, MPs, and local citizens are all against the plan.

He questioned why the UK government is willing to move forward despite the widespread opposition, even waiting for the US to intervene before considering its consequences.

US Lawmakers’ Concerns Over China’s Influence in the UK

Luke De Pulford from the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China echoed the concerns, noting that this issue could alienate the UK’s most important ally, the United States.

He pointed out that it’s unusual for foreign lawmakers to get involved in the UK’s domestic matters, and the fact that Congress has taken a stance on the issue signals just how serious the situation is.

China has been actively lobbying the UK government, with discussions about the embassy raised during talks between President Xi and UK leader Sir Keir Starmer last year, as well as between China’s foreign minister Wang Yi and David Lammy just last week.

The UK Government’s Stance on China and Security

While Labour has pledged to audit the state of UK-China relations, there are concerns that economic growth may be influencing the government’s stance on Beijing.

MPs and campaigners have warned Sir Keir Starmer not to soften his position on China to benefit trade and business ties.

The decision on whether or not to approve the mega-embassy will be a crucial moment in determining the direction of the UK’s relationship with China.

Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs spokesperson Calum Miller raised alarms about the potential security risks posed by the embassy, citing China’s ongoing efforts to steal information and interfere with the UK.

He urged the government to take these security concerns seriously before moving forward with the project.

What Happens Next?

A spokesperson for the Foreign Office emphasized that national security is the government’s primary concern.

They assured that the final decision on the embassy project will be made by the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government in due course, following a thorough review of all the issues at hand.

As the controversy continues to unfold, the UK government’s approach to this issue will send a powerful message about its priorities regarding national security and international relations.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn