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world1d ago
Chinese mega embassy could bring security advantages, says No 10
- UK officials say the Royal Mint Court plan would consolidate seven Chinese sites, bringing security advantages if approved.
- The decision on planning permission has been delayed to January to ensure security considerations are resolved.
- If approved, the embassy would be the largest in Europe with space for about 200 staff on site.
- The site at Royal Mint Court would be close to fibre optic cables carrying sensitive data to the City of London.
- China argues the new complex would boost mutually beneficial cooperation, while opponents cite national security risks.
- UK security services have warned of a national security threat from Chinese state actors amid espionage alerts.
- Opposition figures accuse ministers of pressuring planning scrutiny and demand private hearings for security concerns.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer framed China policy within a broader foreign affairs agenda while acknowledging national security risks.
- Officials say the embassy would consolidate and centralize China’s diplomatic footprint in London if approved.
- The project is part of broader UK-China relations dynamic, balancing economic ties with security concerns.
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