British PM Starmer Plans First China Visit By U.K. Leader In Seven Years

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to visit China in late January, potentially becoming the first U.K. leader to make the trip since Theresa May in 2018, Sky News reported.

The visit would mark a major step in Starmer’s push to stabilize relations with Beijing as his government seeks Chinese investment to revive Britain’s infrastructure and economic growth.

Prime Minister set to jet off to Beijing despite criticism he is a soft touch when it comes to Xi Jinping #DailyExpress https://t.co/k4d06ixVsT pic.twitter.com/2dz4xlNrLo

— Express Politics (@ExpressPolitics) November 20, 2025

The timing is politically sensitive. The U.K. is set to decide soon on approving a new Chinese embassy in London, a move critics warn could pose national security risks.

MI5 recently issued fresh warnings about Chinese attempts to gather intelligence and influence lawmakers, underscoring lingering concerns.

UK's Starmer to go to China at the end of January, Sky News says https://t.co/l6oiMVM8mO

— Reuters Asia (@ReutersAsia) November 20, 2025

A high-profile spying case collapsed in September after prosecutors said the government failed to provide clear evidence that Beijing posed a national security threat, prompting accusations Starmer is softening his stance to court Beijing.

Downing Street insists national security will not be compromised.

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