UK Approves China’s Largest Embassy in London Amid Security Concerns

The UK government approved China’s plan to build its largest embassy in Europe on a 20,000-square-metre site at Royal Mint Court in London, despite security concerns from British and U.S. officials about potential espionage risks near sensitive communication cables. The decision, signed off by Housing Secretary Steve Reed after a ministerial review, faced opposition from parliamentarians, local residents, and pro-democracy campaigners. China maintains the project complies with international laws. The approval precedes Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s planned visit to China, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties.