The U.K. government is expected to approve a new, large Chinese embassy near London’s financial district, ending years of debate over security risks. Lawmakers and activists have raised concerns that the embassy, set to be Europe’s largest, could be used for espionage and put Chinese dissidents in the U.K. at risk.
The site, Royal Mint Court, was purchased by China in 2018 for £225 million, but approval was delayed due to fears of protests and proximity to sensitive infrastructure. Under the current Labour government, China resubmitted its plans, which now await final approval ahead of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to China.
Security fears have intensified following recent allegations of Chinese spying on British lawmakers, though Beijing denies these claims. Starmer has emphasized the need to protect national security while maintaining diplomatic engagement, but critics argue the move favors China.

