I am deeply concerned about plans for the former Royal Mint Site, in the heart of our nation’s capital, to be converted into not just China’s largest diplomatic mission in Europe but the largest embassy of any nation in Europe. Even more concerning is the current Labour Government’s consistent and determined support for the embassy, something the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have personally intervened to support.
As the emails I have received on this matter have pointed out, the proposed site is directly alongside sites of national importance, presenting a potential threat of foreign interference, including key fibre-optic cables vital to Britain’s internet network and London’s communication lines. It is concerning that immediately following the General Election last year, the Chinese Government reapplied for planning permission for the site despite plans having been previously and firmly rejected by Tower Hamlets Council, the Mayor of London and the last Conservative Government. It is also very concerning to hear of first-hand reports of disproportionately low offers to residents living, near or on the proposed site, to sell their homes.
The current Labour Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary and Home Secretary have all prepared to wave through this application, despite serious warnings from the Met Police and our national security services about the site, and in complete contravention of the clear and well-expressed opinions of local people.
I understand that the Planning Inspectors Inquiry on the matter has now concluded and Ministers will be making a decision in the coming weeks. It is essential that Ministers see sense and takes time to properly consider the serious national security concerns staring them right in the face.
More widely, it is my view that China poses a systemic challenge to the UK's values and interests. We cannot turn a blind eye to the endless hostile incursions of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and it is absolutely crucial that the Government keeps its approach to China under review.
I am concerned that the Prime Minister’s attempts to befriend China could put the UK at risk. To echo the words of the Shadow Foreign Secretary, the Prime Minister needs to be honest about what he intends to compromise in his pursuit to make friends with China. I will continue to monitor the Government’s approach and press Ministers to focus on strengthening our national security in those areas where the actions of the CCP pose a threat.
With regards to human rights and fundamental freedoms, the Government should make clear that China must act in line with its obligations under international and national law. The UK should not shy away from making clear to China where deep concerns exist about its conduct, such as on human rights violations in Tibet and against the Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in Xinjiang.
Of course, we cannot simply ignore China’s significance in world affairs. It is precisely because of China’s role in the world as a fellow member of the G20 and fellow permanent member of the UN Security Council, that we all expect China to live up to the international obligations and responsibilities that come with that stature.
