Chinese mega embassy could bring security advantages, says No 10

"Some believe China's mega embassy, if it gets the go-ahead, would be a huge hub in the heart of London for espionage. However, the government is expected to give the green light to the embassy on 20 January next year. This is the third time a decision on whether to give the go-ahead for the embassy has been pushed back, and this delay is understood to be so there is more time to consult all those involved."

"In a letter seen by one of the groups opposed to the plan, the Interparliamentary Alliance on China, the home secretary and the foreign secretary said they had been working to ensure the "national security issues" associated with the new embassy were addressed. Shabana Mahmood and Yvette Cooper said their concerns had been resolved as China had agreed it would move all its accredited diplomats in London onto a single site were it to be approved."

"On Tuesday, the Prime Minister's official spokesperson said that consolidation would "clearly bring security advantages" for the UK. "Should the planning decision for a new embassy be approved, the new embassy would replace seven different sites which currently comprises China's diplomatic footprint in London, which clearly brings security advantages," he said. He added the Home Office and Foreign Office had "provided views on particular security implications, and have been clear throughout that a decision shouldn't be taken until we affirm that"

Plans for a large Chinese embassy in London may deliver security benefits by consolidating seven currently separate diplomatic sites into a single location. Some opponents fear the embassy could become a hub for espionage in central London. Government ministers and security officials have reviewed national security issues and sought assurances from China. China reportedly agreed to move all accredited diplomats in London onto one site if approved. The planning decision has been delayed three times to allow further consultation with stakeholders. The government is expected to announce approval on 20 January, pending final security affirmations from the Home Office and Foreign Office.

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