UK Government Support for China’s New Embassy Plans in London

UK Government Support for China’s New Embassy Plans in London

UK Government Support for China’s New Embassy Plans in London, contingent on minor adjustments to the planning application.

Background of the Controversial Plan

The Chinese government purchased the historic Royal Mint Court site, located near the Tower of London, in 2018 with plans to build a new embassy. However, the local council rejected China’s initial planning application, leading to a stalled decision. The central government took control of the matter in 2023, and a public inquiry will take place next month to consider whether the embassy should proceed.

Government’s Shift in Position

This marks the first time the Labour government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has signaled its support for the embassy plans. Foreign Minister David Lammy and Interior Minister Yvette Cooper expressed the importance of countries having functional diplomatic premises in each other’s capitals. Their joint letter, sent on January 14, mentioned that London’s police had recently withdrawn their objections to the project.

Conditions for Approval

The ministers outlined specific conditions for their support. The Chinese government must make minor adjustments to the planning application, including relinquishing diplomatic accreditation for other buildings in London. The Foreign Ministry is in ongoing discussions with China to secure this agreement.

The Significance of the Embassy

If the plans go ahead, the proposed embassy would cover roughly 600,000 square feet, making it China’s largest diplomatic mission in Europe. It would be more than a third larger than China’s embassy in Washington, D.C.

Path Forward

A decision on whether the new embassy can be built is expected by May 2025, following the public inquiry and any necessary adjustments to the planning application.