MI5 'very relaxed' about Chinese super-embassy proposals in London

MI5 officers told the House of Commons speaker at a private meeting that they could tackle the risks of a proposed Chinese super-embassy in London, opening the door to its approval.

- Eleni Courea Dan Sabbagh Amy Hawkins

The Guardian understands that in a meeting held with Lindsay Hoyle in the summer, senior figures from the Security Service indicated they were "very relaxed" about the prospect of a 20,000 sq metre embassy being constructed at Royal Mint Court near Tower Bridge.

It is considered that the espionage risks of the large outpost can be managed. China has long had a diplomatic presence in the UK, with its existing embassy on Portland Place dating back more than a century.

Keir Starmer is planning to travel to China for his first bilateral visit in January or February, according to several people briefed on the plans, but insiders believe that any trip is contingent on the embassy being approved by ministers next month.

When asked about the espionage risk posed by the embassy, Ken McCallum, the security agency's director general, indicated that MI5 believed the development was something it could deal with.