"China's plans to build a new embassy on the site of the two-century-old Royal Mint Court near the Tower of London have stalled for three years over opposition from residents, lawmakers and Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners in Britain. Pro-democracy campaigners from Hong Kong fear Beijing could use the embassy to harass political opponents and even detain them, while nearby residents fear it could pose a security risk to them and attract large protests."
"Politicians in Britain and the United States have warned the government against allowing China to build the embassy on the site over concerns that it could be used as a base for spying. The future embassy could still face legal challenges as residents said they planned to challenge the approval in the courts. Reed said the decision was now final, barring a successful challenge in court."
Housing Minister Steve Reed granted planning permission for China to build the largest embassy in Europe at Royal Mint Court in London, eight years after Beijing purchased the site. The decision comes before Prime Minister Keir Starmer's expected visit to China. The project stalled for three years amid opposition from residents, lawmakers and Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners who fear harassment, detention and security risks. Politicians in the UK and US warned about potential spying. Residents plan legal challenges. Intelligence agencies advised on risk-management measures. Security Minister Dan Jarvis said national security is protected despite ongoing concerns. The local council rejected plans in 2022.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]