Tensions between the UK and China have deepened after Beijing issued a warning to London over continued delays to the approval of its proposed mega embassy near the Tower of London.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it expressed grave concern and strong dissatisfaction after Housing Secretary Steve Reed postponed a final decision on the embassy project until December 10.
The proposed site, bought for £255 million in 2018, would become the largest Chinese embassy in Europe if approved.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian accused the UK of “acting in bad faith and without integrity, warning that Britain must honour its commitments or bear all consequences.”
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the planning decision was “independent of the rest of government” and dismissed claims that any prior commitments had been made.
The project has been mired in controversy since Tower Hamlets Council rejected planning permission in 2022. China resubmitted its application after Labour came to power, with President Xi Jinping personally raising the issue with Starmer in 2024.
The latest delay comes amid renewed diplomatic strains following allegations of Chinese espionage in the UK. Two Britons accused of spying for China recently saw their case collapse, prompting a parliamentary inquiry into possible government interference.
Security concerns have also been raised about the proposed embassy’s location, which sits close to key data infrastructure in the City of London. Lawmakers warn the site could pose “eavesdropping and sabotage risks.”
Downing Street insists the postponement reflects the complexity of the case rather than political pressure. Reed’s department said more time is needed to assess the detailed submissions and responses before reaching a decision.
