China's Mega-Embassy Just Got The Green Light From Labour. Why Has It Been So Controversial?

Demonstrators hold placards and flags as they attend a protest against the opening of the new Chinese embassy, in London, Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.

The government has finally given China its approval to build a mega-embassy in London after years of pushback from concerned critics.

Despite fears Beijing could use the building for espionage, to intimidate overseas dissidents or to disrupt Britain’s sensitive financial cabling, prime minister Keir Starmer and housing secretary Steve Reed finally gave the green light on Tuesday.