London | 27th November 2024 | GATPM
The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) is calling on the UK government to block controversial plans for a massive Chinese “super-embassy” near the Tower of London. Citing serious concerns over human rights, public safety, and community welfare, GATPM joins growing opposition to the project, centred on the Royal Mint Court site, which the Chinese government purchased in 2018 for £255 million.
A latest protest against the “super-embassy” is planned for Saturday, 30th November, at 2pm, at the site, led by local residents, human rights defenders, and community leaders. Join the protest outside The Royal Mint Court Site on Saturday, 30th November @2pm.
Public Backlash and Safety Concerns
The proposed embassy, set to be the largest Chinese diplomatic mission in Europe, has drawn widespread criticism from local residents, Tower Hamlets Council, and counterterrorism officials. The Metropolitan Police’s counterterrorism unit has raised alarm over the location, warning it could become a flashpoint for large-scale demonstrations against China’s human rights abuses.
Jon Savell, a senior counterterrorism official with the Metropolitan Police, highlighted concerns about the inadequate space at the site to accommodate protests.
Demonstrations could disrupt nearby tourist hotspots, including the Tower of London, and obstruct vital routes, such as emergency access to the Royal London Hospital. Savell cautioned that such disruptions could have dire, life-threatening consequences and that managing protests would further burden overstretched police resources.
Human Rights at the Forefront
The planned embassy has become a symbol of Beijing’s oppressive policies, which include the ongoing genocide of Uyghurs, suppression of Tibetan culture, and erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong. Critics argue that allowing this “super-embassy” would embolden China’s authoritarian regime at home and abroad whilst further undermining human rights and free speech.
A troubling precedent occurred in 2022, when a pro-democracy protester was assaulted on the grounds of the Chinese consulate in Manchester. This incident underlines the potential risks posed by embassies tied to regimes that disregard international norms.
“The proposed site is not just a planning issue; it symbolises China’s blatant disregard for human rights and democratic values,” said Tsering Passang, Founder and Chair of GATPM. “Approving this embassy would send the wrong message and undermine the UK’s commitment to freedom and justice.”
Local Leadership Stands Firm
Tower Hamlets Council, backed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, has already rejected the embassy’s planning application, reflecting the concerns of local residents and elected leaders. Despite this, China has resubmitted its plans with only minor modifications, ignoring local objections and undermining democratic governance.
The original application received over 50 objections, citing potential surveillance risks, threats to public safety, and the adverse impact on the neighbourhood’s character. The Chinese government’s push to override local decisions has fuelled further outrage.
GATPM’s Call to Action
The GATPM urges Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the UK government to uphold the Council’s decision and prevent the embassy’s construction. This is not merely a planning issue but a principled stand in defence of human rights, public safety, and democratic values.
“This is about more than a building – it’s about safeguarding the rights and safety of British communities while sending a clear message that the UK will not tolerate Beijing’s human rights violations,” said Passang.
The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities calls for vigilance and solidarity to ensure human rights and democratic principles remain central to this critical decision.
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From Lord David Alton’s Website:
Minister says proposal for a CCP mega embassy on the Royal Mint Site “has now been called in for decision by Planning Ministers. A public local inquiry will be held at which residents and other interested parties will be able to make representations”
Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, has provided the following answer to your written parliamentary question (HL2372):
Question by Lord Alton of Liverpool:
To ask His Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to ensure that the residents of Tower Hamlets who may be affected by the planned new Chinese Embassy have sufficient opportunity to voice their concerns to the Government about the proposed development. (HL2372)
Tabled on: 11 November 2024
Answer:
Baroness Taylor of Stevenage:
This proposal has now been called in for decision by Planning Ministers. A public local inquiry will be held at which residents and other interested parties will be able to make representations, and these will be taken into account when a final decision is made.
Date and time of answer: 25 Nov 2024 at 15:32.
CALL FOR ACTION:
Please submit your concerns to the relevant ministers via below form: https://submitanenquiry.communities.gov.uk/start-now
Angela Rayner MP, Deputy Prime Minister; Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government
Jim McMahon MP, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution
Matthew Pennycook MP, Minister of State for Housing and Planning
Note: Prepare your letter in advance in PDF or suitable format, which you can attach in the above form. If you require any help, please contact GATPM @AllianceTibet.
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 
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