Labour approves plans for China's 'super embassy' despite security fears

Labour has approved plans for China's controversial new "super-embassy" in central London.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has green lit the plans for the building at Royal Mint Court despite criticism from MPs and campaigners over its security implications.

Critics had called on the Government to reject the plans over security concerns, with local residents raising money to launch a judicial review against the project.

The decision removes a diplomatic hurdle in the relationship with Xi Jinping’s government, clearing the way for Sir Keir Starmer to make a widely-expected visit to China, possibly within weeks.

A letter from the MHCLG said the Communities Secretary Steve Reed had granted both planning permission and listed building consent for the site near the Tower of London.

It read: "The Inspector recommended that the applications be approved and planning permission and listed building consent be granted, subject to conditions.

"For the reasons given below, the Secretary of State agrees with the Inspector’s conclusions, except where stated, and agrees with her recommendations.

"He has decided to grant planning permission and listed building consent, subject to conditions."

The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, which has been involved in a campaign to halt the new embassy, said the planning approval was the "wrong decision for the UK."

Luke de Pulford, a co-founder of the group, said: "This is the wrong decision for the UK, sending all the wrong signals.

"Wrong for dissidents, wrong for UK national security.

"Our three Cs China policy is less compete, challenge and cooperate, more cover-up, cave in, and cash out."

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Senior Conservatives were quick to criticise the approval, dubbing it a "surrender."

Shadow Communities Secretary Sir James Cleverly said: "This is a disgraceful act of cowardice from a Labour Government and Prime Minister utterly devoid of backbone. The first duty of any Government is to keep the country safe.

"But Keir Starmer has relegated that most critical priority beneath his desperate desire for Beijing’s approval. Labour’s latest sell-out confirms they cannot be trusted to stand up for Britain on the international stage."

Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel said: "Keir Starmer has sold off our national security to the Chinese Communist Party with his shameful super embassy surrender. Throughout his dismal premiership to date, the PM has kowtowed to Beijing at every opportunity, including over Chagos...he is giving Xi Jinping what he wants, a colossal spy hub in the heart of our capital."

More to follow...