China’s ‘Super Embassy’ Plan in London Triggers Spy Fears
UK delays approval after Beijing refuses to explain “greyed-out” areas in design of massive new diplomatic compound near the Tower of London.
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Plans for China’s so-called “super embassy” in London have hit another roadblock, and this time, the reason is sparking spy panic in Britain.
According to the Financial Times, UK authorities pressed Beijing to explain “greyed-out” sections in the official layout of the sprawling embassy complex planned at the historic Royal Mint Court site, just steps from the Tower of London. China reportedly declined to provide details, saying it was not “necessary or appropriate” to reveal the full internal designs of its future compound.
The British Housing Ministry has now delayed a final decision on the embassy until October 21.
A super-sized project, shrouded in secrecy
Beijing purchased the five-acre site in 2018, aiming to construct what would become the largest Chinese diplomatic mission in Europe, ten times the size of its current London base. The blueprints include not only embassy offices, but also 225 residential units and a cultural exchange center.
Yet critics argue that the embassy’s size and location, in the heart of London’s financial and historic district, could allow China to expand surveillance activities on British soil. Some lawmakers and security experts warn it could become a “listening post” for Beijing, giving rise to fears of covert operations under the cover of diplomacy.
Beijing pushes back
On Saturday, the Chinese embassy in London expressed “serious concern” over the UK’s decision to stall the project. A spokesperson insisted that Beijing had followed all customary diplomatic procedures and provided “comprehensive answers” to Britain’s inquiries.
“It is an international obligation of the host country to provide support and facilitation for the construction of diplomatic premises,” the statement read, adding that the UK itself is building a new embassy in Beijing.
Espionage shadows
The latest clash comes amid a series of high-profile espionage allegations exchanged between London and Beijing. Earlier this year, British intelligence accused Chinese agents of recruiting parliamentary staffers. China has repeatedly denied such claims, dismissing them as political smears.