Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets of central London on Saturday in a final push to oppose controversial plans for a new Chinese "mega embassy".
Protesters Voice Security and Repression Fears
The protest, held at the site of the former Royal Mint Court, was led by Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch. She addressed the crowd from a makeshift stage, declaring her solidarity and vowing to fight the proposal. "I stand with you," Ms Badenoch said. "I will always fight for freedom. I am calling on the government to stop this decision." She expressed deep concern that the embassy could be used to spy on British MPs.
Chants of "mega embassy, mega mistake", "don't bow to China" and "no mega embassy" filled the air, with some protesters making gestures of defiance towards the vast development site. The location, situated between the City of London and Canary Wharf financial districts, has sparked significant alarm. Critics argue it could become a hub for espionage, while dissidents fear it may be used as a base to intimidate and repress overseas communities.
A Coalition of Critics and Diaspora Voices
The demonstration featured a broad coalition of speakers and attendees. Alongside Ms Badenoch were MPs from across the political spectrum, including Reform UK's Danny Kruger, Liberal Democrat Bobby Dean, and Conservative Sir Iain Duncan Smith. Sir Iain warned the government to "wake up" to the threat from China, suggesting UK security services were being constrained in their response.
A significant portion of the crowd consisted of members of the Chinese, Uighur, and Tibetan diasporas, as well as Hong Kongers exiled for pro-democracy activities. One prominent voice was that of Chloe Cheung, 20, who faces an arrest warrant and a HK$1 million bounty from Hong Kong authorities. "I have been harassed and threatened every day because of speaking out for democracy," she told Sky News, adding she was "horrified" by the embassy plans and feared potential kidnapping.
Some placards satirised Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, whose anticipated visit to China later this month coincides with the government's decision date.
Decision Imminent Amid Firm Denials
The protest came ahead of a crucial deadline, with the government expected to make a final ruling on the planning application on Tuesday 20 January 2026. A Foreign Office spokesperson stated that national security had been a priority in the process, but emphasised that maintaining embassies is a normal feature of diplomatic relations.
The Chinese embassy has repeatedly dismissed the security concerns. A spokesperson previously labelled the claims as "completely groundless and malicious slander", insisting the new building is intended to promote understanding and friendship between the UK and China.
Regardless of Tuesday's outcome, the issue is far from settled. Residents' groups have already indicated they will mount a legal challenge if planning permission is granted, suggesting the debate over the Royal Mint Court mega embassy will continue to be a contentious feature of London's political landscape.
