Starmer warns of 'national security threats' from China to UK

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has acknowledged that China presents national security threats to the UK, despite government efforts to improve relations with Beijing. Addressing criticism over Labours China policy, he rejected the idea of a strict choice between the golden era promoted by Lord Cameron and the ice age associated with recent Conservative leadership.

Speaking at the annual Guildhall foreign policy lecture, Sir Keir emphasized that ignoring engagement with the worlds second-largest economy would be a dereliction of duty. He stated: China is a country of vast scale, ambition, and ingenuity. It is a major force in technology, trade, and global governance. At the same time, it poses national security risks to the UK.

Sir Keir clarified: This is not about weighing economic benefits against security concerns. Security cannot be compromised for economic gain. Protecting our national safety is paramount. At the same time, firm measures to ensure security allow cooperation in other areas.

His comments come amid scrutiny of Labours approach toward Beijing following the collapse of the Westminster spy case, in which Christopher Cash, 30, and Christopher Berry, 33, were accused of passing sensitive parliamentary information to China. The trial was halted after a key witness declined to confirm that China represented a threat to UK national security, which was necessary for prosecution under the Official Secrets Act. This raised questions about whether the government had intervened to protect relations with China, a claim officials denied.

On the same night, it emerged that Jonathan Powell, Sir Keirs national security adviser, made an unannounced visit to Beijing to meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During the meeting, Wang expressed hope that the UK would adopt a friendly approach toward China.

Powells visit precedes a government decision on Chinas proposed new embassy in London on the former Royal Mint site, near a sensitive communications hub linked to the financial district. Intelligence officials have raised concerns over potential vulnerabilities.

The Chinese foreign ministry claimed that Powell conveyed Labours willingness to develop a coherent, lasting, and strategic relationship with China and promote fruitful co-operation. Wang Yi emphasized the need for strategic communication, enhanced mutual trust, and necessary coordination, along with a rational and friendly approach toward Chinas development to support stable UK-China relations.

Sources close to Powell noted that high-level meetings of this nature are routinely unannounced due to the demands of his role.

Author: Sophia Brooks