📍 Date: 8 February 2025
📍 Location: Royal Mint Court, London, United Kingdom
Thousands of Hongkongers across the UK are expected to descend on London on 8 February 2025 in a major protest against China’s planned 600,000 sq ft mega-embassy at the historic Royal Mint Court, near the Tower of London.
The protest, organised by Hongkongers from Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield, and other cities, comes amid growing frustration with the UK government’s soft stance on China, which has paved the way for the embassy plan to move forward.
🚍 Buses have already been arranged from multiple cities to bring protesters to London, highlighting the scale of opposition within the UK’s Hong Kong community.
Why Are There So Many Hongkongers in the UK?
Since China’s crackdown on Hong Kong’s freedoms following the 2019 pro-democracy protests, over 180,000 Hongkongers have moved to the UK under the British National (Overseas) (BNO) visa scheme, designed to offer a lifeline to those fleeing political repression.
For many in this community, China’s growing influence in the UK is deeply concerning. The proposed super embassy, they argue, could become a symbol of Beijing’s tightening grip and a threat to activists and dissidents who have found refuge in Britain.
“We left Hong Kong to escape authoritarian rule, and now China is trying to build one of its biggest embassies right here in London,” said a protest organiser. “The UK government should be standing firm against this, not showing mercy to Beijing.”
China’s Mega-Embassy Moves Closer to Approval
The controversial project would include:
🏛️ A seven-storey embassy building
🏠 225 diplomatic residences
🎭 A cultural exchange centre
🔨 Demolition of existing buildings to make way for new facilities
Initially rejected by Tower Hamlets Council in December 2022, China resubmitted the plan after the Labour government came into power. Although the Metropolitan Police had previously raised concerns about managing protests in the area, it recently withdrew its objections, allowing the plan to advance.
A final decision now rests with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, following a public inquiry scheduled for next month.
Critics say the UK government is showing a worrying level of deference to China, prioritising diplomatic relations over security concerns and public opposition.
Mass Mobilisation: Thousands to Gather in London
To ensure a massive turnout, organisers have coordinated buses from Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield, and other cities.
📅 Date: Saturday, 8 February 2025
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Royal Mint Court, EC3N 4AB, London
🔹 Why are they protesting?
❌ To oppose China’s growing influence in the UK
❌ To challenge the UK government’s soft stance on Beijing
❌ To protect the freedoms and security of Hongkongers in Britain
Organisers say the demonstration will test whether the UK government truly underestimates the level of opposition. Some activists have labelled the event a “pressure test”, designed to prove that public anger is greater than expected.
“We must send a clear message that Britain cannot continue to appease China at the expense of its own values and security,” said a campaigner.
Public Pressure Mounts Against the UK Government
Beyond the protest, Hongkongers in Britain have been petitioning MPs and delivering letters of opposition to government officials.
Activists also visited Angela Rayner’s office, calling on her to block the project.
“Prove Them Wrong” – A Show of Strength
Critics claim that the UK government believes opposition to the project is weak, allowing it to justify a lenient approach towards China.
In response, protesters have adopted the slogan:
🚨 “Prove Them Wrong!” 🚨
A statement from organisers reads:
“The UK government thinks not enough people care to protest against the Chinese embassy mega-development. Let’s show them they’re wrong.”
With buses bringing thousands to London, activists hope to send a clear message:
🔴 The UK must stand firm against China
🔴 Hongkongers will not be silenced
🔴 This project must be stopped
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Source: https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2025/01/27/chinese-super-embassy-plan-edges-closer-to-go-ahead/
