Archive · 21 Aug 2025
UK Eyes China Expert for National Security Role
The UK is planning to have Barbara Woodward, who used to be the UK's ambassador to China, become the new deputy national security adviser.
This means she'll be a key advisor on important security matters for the government.
She knows a lot about China, having worked there for many years, including during a time when the UK and China were friendly.
Now, the UK wants to improve its relationship with China again, and Woodward's expertise will be important.
She will work with other advisors to help the government make important decisions.
Barbara Woodward, former UK ambassador to China, expected to become deputy national security adviser.
Woodward is currently the UK's top diplomat at the United Nations and will begin the new role later this year.
She served as ambassador to China from 2015 to 2020, during a period of closer UK-China ties.
The appointment comes as the Starmer government seeks economic improvement with China.
Woodward will work alongside two other deputies under National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell.
- Who
- Barbara Woodward, Keir Starmer
- What
- Barbara Woodward is expected to be named as deputy national security adviser.
- When
- The new position will begin later this year.
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- To improve relations with China and boost UK's economy.
UK's Stance
China's Perspective
Economic vs Security Concerns
UK's Stance
Improve trade relations with China to boost the economy.
China's Perspective
Concerns over human rights and security risks from China.
- New Role
- Deputy National Security Adviser
- Former Position
- UK Ambassador to China, UK's top diplomat at the United Nations
- Current National Security Adviser
- Jonathan Powell
- Overseen Time
- Golden era of UK-China relations
- Foreign Secretary
- David Lammy