The Chinese government has refused to provide details on its plans for a “mega-embassy” in London, after Britain requested additional information about “disconnected” parts in some of the submitted drawings. China has deemed the request “inappropriate.”
According to British Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, the Chinese embassy must submit full drawings without redaction or identify precisely the parts that have been kept secret. Two buildings in the submitted plans, the Cultural Exchange Building and Embassy House, were “disconnected,” according to her housing department.
Chinese government representatives wrote that they did not see it necessary to submit full internal plans to understand what was permitted, adding that the level of detail provided was sufficient and consistent with planning standards. They also objected to the request to build a wall around a paved area in front of the building to ensure safe access.
The Chinese embassy said the application to build the embassy “followed international practices and local protocols.” The project, which will be the largest in Europe and will be built opposite the Tower of London on a 5-acre site, has sparked debate over national security, with critics warning of major risks.
The British government announced that the decision on China's application will be postponed until October 21.