China has issued a sharp warning to the United Kingdom. This significant diplomatic row concerns a delayed embassy decision. The UK government has postponed its ruling for a second time. Beijing’s foreign ministry strongly condemned this action on Friday. A spokesman said the delay violates UK commitments. He also warned the UK must bear all resulting consequences.
Therefore, the proposed embassy site is at Royal Mint Court. China purchased this London location for two hundred fifty-five million pounds. The planned complex would become Europe’s largest diplomatic mission. It would include offices and housing for two hundred staff. The development would also feature a large basement area. Consequently, security officials have raised serious concerns.
Moreover, the UK housing department is now reviewing the application. They recently extended the decision deadline to December tenth. Officials require more time for a proper security assessment. They are also awaiting responses from other government departments. The Foreign Office and Home Office are both consulting. This significant diplomatic row stems from these necessary delays.
China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed frustration. He accused the UK of politicizing the planning matter. Also, he stated the UK constantly complicates the approval process. He also said the UK links the project with unrelated issues. Therefore, he warned of consequences for the bilateral relationship. The UK government however firmly rejected these claims.
Downing Street stated it does not recognize China’s claims. A spokesman said protecting national security is their first duty. He emphasized the planning process remains independent. The Prime Minister previously discussed the issue with China’s leader. He promised to follow the required legal process and timeline. This significant diplomatic row tests the UK’s procedural integrity.
The initial local council rejected the application in 2022. Tower Hamlets Council cited clear safety and security concerns. China subsequently resubmitted its application last year. The government then took over the planning authority. Former Housing Secretary Angela Rayner requested the first delay. She sought explanations for blanked-out rooms on the plans.
Security fears primarily drive the government’s caution. Experts worry about the embassy’s massive size and location. They fear possible infiltration of the UK financial system. The site sits near sensitive City of London data cables. The Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties oppose the project. They have urged the government to reject the application entirely.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
