UK government approves China’s controversial mega-embassy in London

Key Highlights

• The UK government’s approval ends a long eight-year struggle over whether to allow construction on the 20,000-square-metre site. More from World UK govt rolls back plan requiring workers to use digital ID for employment checks after backlash ‘Hindus being murdered, temples burned’: UK condemns violence in Bangladesh, calls for credible electionsOfficials say that extensive security assessments were carried out before granting permission.
• Despite concerns from critics about espionage risks, UK intelligence services reportedly judged that such threats can be managed and do not outweigh the diplomatic benefits.
• Supporters of the plan argue it will consolidate China’s multiple UK diplomatic posts into a single, secure location. Strong opposition and legal challenges aheadThe decision has caused immediate backlash.
• Local residents and campaign groups have vowed to challenge the approval in court, saying the government’s support is predetermined and lacking in transparency. Quick ReadsView AllGreenland, Canada in 'new map of USA': Trump fuels territory feuds with alliesTrump 2.0 Inauguration Live Updates: Trump says ‘no going back’ on Greenland plan as he marks 1 year back in White HouseOne residents’ association has already raised tens of thousands of pounds to fund a judicial review of the planning decision, arguing the process ignored local concerns and potential impacts on the community, as reported by the Guardian. Critics also raised national concerns: MPs from across parties questioned whether a mega-embassy so close to key infrastructure could be used for espionage, although security agencies have maintained the risks are manageable.
• Some lawmakers and campaigners say the project could become “a launchpad for economic warfare” or pose unacceptable security vulnerabilities. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS ADBeijing has made the embassy a priority issue in diplomatic talks, and approval may smooth the way for the first UK prime ministerial visit to China in years.