Prime Minister and Labour leadership face mounting pressure over the decision, as Labour MPs voice security worries ahead of the anticipated January 20 decision.

Hundreds of protesters gather near the former Royal Mint site by Tower Bridge in London, voicing strong opposition to China’s planned mega-embassy with chants of “No China mega-embassy” as a high-stakes decision looms.

Opposition leader and other critics urge the Labour government to reject the project amid concerns over espionage, human rights abuses, and potential harassment of MPs linked to China.

British ministers have set a deadline around mid-January to decide on the largest Chinese embassy in Europe, a decision expected to favor approval according to several briefings.

Security services have reportedly given a tentative go-ahead, arguing the risks are manageable and could streamline diplomatic operations.

Unredacted blueprints allegedly reveal a hidden chamber and more than 200 underground rooms near critical cables, prompting security risk warnings.

Analysts caution that if security services sign off but the government rejects the plan, the controversy could intensify, defending the notion that the site’s secret rooms are part of essential classified facilities.

A planning shield mechanism, known as a Section 321 direction, could prevent sensitive security information from disclosure, though Conservatives question why Labour hasn’t used it to shield MI5 representations.

The debate underscores broader diplomatic and geopolitical implications with China beyond the planning specifics.

Locals fear for safety and privacy, with some residents pursuing judicial review as part of their opposition.

Security and diaspora concerns are raised by experts and activists about potential espionage and impact on Chinese diaspora communities in the UK.

ministers are expected to reach a decision by Tuesday, with heightened scrutiny of security implications and sovereignty concerns surrounding the embassy.