China resubmits application to build contested big embassy in London, saying decision to reject a first proposals in 2022 on security grounds and the impact on residents was “without merit”
Although the planning application will initially be handled by Tower Hamlets council, the national government could get involved if the proposal is rejected again and China appeals.
China has accused Britain of exaggerating allegations about Chinese spies and cyberattacks.
The embassy would be China’s biggest diplomatic legation in Europe and almost twice the size of its one in Washington.
This led some British politicians and security officials to warn that a bigger embassy and more Chinese diplomats could make it easier to increase the number of spies in the country.
