Keir Starmer Expected to Approve Chinese “Super-Embassy” in London Amid Security Concerns

Proposed Royal Mint Court development faces opposition from MPs, residents, and rights groups despite reported clearance from UK security services.

By: Haitian Prime News|January 13, 2026|London, United Kingdom

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce approval for China’s proposed “super-embassy” at Royal Mint Court in London, according to reports, a move that has reignited debate over national security, civil liberties, and the United Kingdom’s relationship with Beijing.

The proposal has drawn criticism from within Parliament. Nine Labour Members of Parliament recently wrote to Environment Secretary Steve Reed urging rejection of the plan, citing security risks and concerns that the site could facilitate intimidation or surveillance of Chinese dissidents living in the UK.

Opposition has focused in part on reported planning details indicating extensive underground construction. According to the MPs’ letter, unredacted documents suggest the presence of more than 200 basement rooms and a sealed chamber near key fibre-optic infrastructure—features critics say warrant heightened scrutiny, though no official findings of wrongdoing have been made public.

The letter was coordinated by the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC). Labour MP Sarah Champion warned of potential spyware and surveillance risks, while MP Alex Sobel called for approval to be delayed pending the release of jailed Hong Kong media figure Jimmy Lai.

Public order considerations have also been raised. The Metropolitan Police have cautioned that expected protests at Royal Mint Court could place additional strain on policing resources. Local residents have indicated they are preparing legal challenges should final approval be granted.

China has reportedly warned of “consequences” if the UK blocks the project. At the same time, it is understood that UK security services have reviewed the proposal and raised no formal objections. The UK is also awaiting Chinese approval for its own planned £100 million embassy development in Beijing, and Sir Keir Starmer is expected to travel to China later this year.

If approved, the development is likely to intensify scrutiny of the UK’s approach to China, highlighting the tension between diplomatic engagement and concerns over security, human rights, and foreign influence.

Sources

Ground News (summary reporting)

UK parliamentary correspondence cited in reporting