Hugely sensitive decision that was bound to be met with criticismpublished at 13:08 GMT 20 January
Damian Grammaticas
Political correspondent
This decision is a hugely sensitive one. Whenever it was
delivered it was always going to be met with criticism from all sides, and
accusations that the government was bending too far to accommodate China.
A final decision was delayed several times last year,
ostensibly because the government was seeking more information.
But, at the time controversies over Chinese spying in the UK
and targeting of dissidents had already raised the political temperature, so
delaying was also politically expedient.
For China securing permission was its top priority in
relations with the UK. Having a huge and prominent embassy in a key location
would be a symbol of China’s diplomatic heft.
From the UK’s perspective, with Sir Keir Starmer expected to
visit Beijing in the near future, the approval lays the groundwork for
engagement China on a whole range of issues, from trade to security and human
rights.
The government’s view is that does not mean the UK is “soft”
on China in any way, but dealing, pragmatically with a major power that cannot
be ignored. The security risks have been considered and deemed not serious
enough to veto the plan.
As for how it may be taken by the US. So far it’s been
voices in Congress, critics of China, who have voiced opposition to the mega
embassy.
Downing Street may be waiting to see if President Trump
feels the need to weigh in on this.
