UK Lays Groundwork for Approval of Controversial Chinese Embassy

The UK appeared to lay the groundwork for approving China’s new embassy in London on the eve of a controversial decision that risks driving a deeper wedge both within the ruling Labour party and with the US administration.

Foreign minister Seema Malhotra sought to reassure members of parliament on Monday of the involvement of Britain’s security services in the process, as they voiced concerns about the national security implications. Housing Secretary Steve Reed is due to announce the government’s decision on whether to grant planning permission for the embassy on Tuesday.