Archive · 23 Dec 2025
UK PM Starmer Balances Security and Trade with China
The UK's prime minister, Keir Starmer, is trying to balance the country's relationship with China.
China is important for technology, trade, and global governance, but it also poses security threats like cyberattacks and spying.
A parliamentary watchdog says the UK government needs to be more careful about security.
Starmer will visit China soon to improve relations, but some people think the UK should be tougher on China, especially about political prisoners.
The government is also considering allowing a new big Chinese embassy in London, which has raised concerns.
UK PM Keir Starmer acknowledges China's role in technology, trade, and global governance but recognizes national security threats.
The Intelligence and Security Committee warns of the government's reluctance to prioritize security considerations in dealing with China.
China is linked to cyberattacks on the UK's Foreign Office and other security threats, including spying and industrial espionage.
The UK government is considering adding China to its enhanced threat regime, currently only including Russia and Iran.
Starmer plans to visit China early next year to strengthen economic and diplomatic relations, potentially approving a controversial new Chinese embassy in London.
- Who
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Intelligence and Security Committee
- What
- Balancing national security and economic relations with China
- When
- Early next year for Starmer's visit to China
- Where
- UK and China
- Why
- To strengthen economic and diplomatic relations while addressing security concerns
- Prime Minister
- Keir Starmer
- Intelligence and Security Committee
- Parliamentary watchdog
- China's Role
- Technology, trade, and global governance
- Security Threats
- Cyberattacks, spying, and industrial espionage
- Foreign Influence Registration Scheme
- Requires registration for Russia and Iran
- Upcoming Visit
- Starmer to visit China early next year
- Controversial Embassy
- China's new 'mega embassy' in London
- Political Prisoners
- Jimmy Lai and others in Hong Kong