Question: It is reported that the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has postponed its decision on the planning application for the new Chinese Embassy project to 21 October. What is your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: We express our serious concern over this move by the UK side.

The planning and design of the new Chinese Embassy project is of high quality, which has been well recognised by various professional bodies. The planning application has followed the customary diplomatic practices, as well as necessary protocol and procedures. In our reply to MHCLG, we have provided a comprehensive response to the questions concerning the planning application.

It is an international obligation of the host country to provide support and facilitation for the construction of diplomatic premises. Both China and the UK plan to build new embassies in each other's capitals. The Chinese side urges the UK side to fulfill its obligation and approve the planning application without delay.