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London under scrutiny? The Times: How China is creating a £750 million mega-embassy!

2025-12-21 13:58:24Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

London under scrutiny? The Times: How China is creating a £750 million

Next month, the UK is expected to give permission for China to build a £750 million mega-embassy on the site of the former Royal Mint, in the heart of London.

This project, which will create one of the largest embassies in the world, has been embroiled in scandal, secrecy and national security concerns.

China is now accused of spying on British ministers, sparking debates in Westminster over whether or not to declare the country an " enemy state ."

Increasing Chinese diplomatic presence in the United Kingdom

The Sunday Times investigation has revealed that Beijing has been steadily increasing its diplomatic presence in the UK, adding new officials every two months and buying properties in London, many of which are not registered as diplomatic residences.

Criticized as "an invasion of spies," this increase worries security experts.

The new complex at Royal Mint Court

In 2018, China bought the 5.5-hectare complex near the Tower of London for 255 million pounds, where British coins were produced for about 160 years and earlier, in the 14th century, it had been a Cistercian abbey.

The plan includes the demolition of official buildings and apartments where about 100 families live, who will be relocated.

When completed, the embassy will have 65,000 m² of surface area, becoming the largest in Europe, with a cultural center and accommodation for more than 200 employees.

Several areas, including a deep underground floor, have been blacked out on the map and China has refused to clarify their use.

Concerns about security and presence near financial centers

The embassy will be located between two of London's financial districts, the City and Canary Wharf, near fiber optic cables carrying sensitive information and three important data centers.

The US warned Downing Street last year not to allow construction there, with Dominic Cummings stating that MI5 and MI6 considered it a "spying centre".

Increase in Chinese diplomatic staff

From 94 diplomats in 2010, China has now reached 142, adding a new official every two months on average.

Many of them may have dual roles, diplomatic and intelligence, according to experts.

According to Ed Arnold of the Royal United Services Institute: “The line between diplomatic staff and intelligence agents is blurred… Chinese tactics are based on volume and massive presence.”

Chinese properties in London

Analysis of official documents reveals that China owns 50 properties in London, most of which are not established as diplomatic residences.

These include apartments in Maida Vale and Hampstead, a Xinhua office and homes for the science and technology section.

The total value amounts to around 100 million pounds, not including the new embassy site.

Political debate and government decision

The draft application was initially rejected by Tower Hamlets Council in 2022, but was reinstated by the new Labour government and the Metropolitan Police withdrew its objections. MI5 and MI6 gave their approval, citing “safeguards” for national security. The final decision lies with the new housing secretary, Steve Reed.

Chinese reactions

Chinese officials say the embassy plan is fully compliant with diplomatic laws and criticism of espionage is "absurd and groundless."

Consequences and experts' concerns

Experts warn that the expansion of the Chinese presence could have major political consequences for businesses, as well as for dissidents living in the United Kingdom.

The families who will be relocated have announced a review in the Supreme Court.


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