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46m ago

Protests Mount as UK Nears Decision on China’s Royal Mint ‘Mega-Embassy’

Security warnings focus on reported underground facilities beside financial data cables.

Demonstrators hold placards and flags as they attend a protest against the opening of the new Chinese embassy, in London, Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali)
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Demonstrators hold placards and flags as they attend a protest against the proposed Chinese embassy, in London, Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali)
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Overview

  • Ministers face a decision deadline by Tuesday, with some outlets reporting approval is expected as Keir Starmer plans a visit to China later this month.
  • Hundreds rallied at Royal Mint Court, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and other cross‑party politicians urging the government to block the project.
  • Unredacted plans reported by The Daily Telegraph describe 208 subterranean rooms and a concealed chamber located next to fibre‑optic routes serving the City and Canary Wharf.
  • The government says national security has been the core priority throughout the review, and UK security services are reported to have raised no objection.
  • Local residents say the complex would threaten safety and privacy and are preparing a legal challenge, while MPs have formally warned of risks to dissidents and critical infrastructure.