Archive · 13 Jan 2026
UK MPs Raise Security Concerns Over China's Mega Embassy Plans
Some UK politicians are worried about China building a very big embassy in London.
They say there's a secret room in the plans that could be used for spying.
The embassy is near important internet cables that send lots of information.
The UK government says they will make sure the country is safe, but they also want to have good trade relations with China.
The decision about whether to allow the embassy to be built is expected soon.
UK MPs raised security concerns over China's proposed mega embassy in London, citing a secret room in the basement plans.
The embassy site is near critical fibre-optic cables transmitting financial and internet data.
Housing Minister Mathew Pennycook assured that national security will not be compromised.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to approve the embassy plans ahead of a visit to Beijing.
China has dismissed espionage claims, stating that anti-China elements are slandering the country.
- Who
- UK MPs, including Sarah Champion and Alicia Kearns, and the UK government
- What
- Concerns over China's proposed mega embassy in London due to a secret room in the basement and potential security threats
- When
- January 13, with a decision expected next week
- Where
- Royal Mint Court, London
- Why
- Due to alleged security risks and the proximity of the embassy to critical infrastructure
- Location
- Royal Mint Court, London
- Land Area
- 20,000 square metres
- Purchase Price
- 225 million pounds
- Current Embassy Location
- Portland Place, near Baker Street
- Security Agencies Involved
- MI5, MI6
- UK Prime Minister
- Keir Starmer
- UK Housing Minister
- Mathew Pennycook
- UK Shadow National Security Minister
- Alicia Kearns