Thousands Rally in London Against China’s Planned Mega-Embassy at Royal Mint Court

More than 4,000 people gathered in central London to oppose the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) proposed mega-embassy at Royal Mint Court, near the iconic Tower of London. Protesters described the project as a major threat to British democracy and security, calling for its rejection.

The demonstration, among the largest to date against the plan, drew together diverse groups: Tibetans, Uyghurs, Hongkongers, Taiwanese activists, pro-democracy Chinese, and concerned British citizens. The coordinated protest featured two rallies — “No to CCP Mega-Embassy” and “China: Stop Transnational Repression”.

Tsering Passang, chair of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities, condemned the proposal as a “monstrous plan” designed for surveillance and intimidation, rather than diplomacy. He warned that if approved, the site would become the CCP’s largest diplomatic post in Europe.

The UK proposal has sparked wide concern, echoing international unease about Chinese overseas influence. European countries like the Netherlands and Switzerland, and the United States, have cited similar fears over China’s alleged covert police stations operating abroad. In April 2023, the UK government confirmed reports of suspected Chinese police service stations in Britain and launched investigations (The Guardian, BBC News).

Critics argue that granting the embassy site could aid Beijing’s efforts to monitor, intimidate, and silence dissidents in the UK, undermining civil liberties and democratic principles. Activists and community leaders urge the British government to block the proposal and prioritize national security over diplomatic expansion.

The City of London Corporation, which owns the Royal Mint Court site, has stated that planning approval is still pending, and the matter is under review.