Reeves says Government taking ‘pragmatic’ approach to relationship with China
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Rachel Reeves said trading with China was in the UK’s national interest as she promised a “pragmatic” approach to relations with Beijing. The Government has come under pressure to take a tougher stance on China following allegations about spying and attempts by Beijing to wield influence at the heart of the British establishment.
The Chancellor said the Government would put “national security first”, but it was also in the UK’s interests to seek investment from the Asian economic powerhouse. A planned register designed to tackle foreign influence will not be put in place until next year and it is not yet clear whether the Government will put China in the “enhanced” tier, requiring a broader range of activities to be covered due to security concerns.
Such a move could damage business relations with China at a time when the Government is seeking a better relationship with Beijing. Ms Reeves is expected to visit China in the new year for talks with vice premier He Lifeng, following a meeting between Sir Keir Starmer and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in November.
The Chancellor said: “I think it’s most important that we always put our national security first, and this Government, under Keir Starmer’s leadership, will always do so. “Our relationship with China will be a pragmatic one, which is in our national interest.
“And so, of course, to challenge where appropriate, and to ensure that our national security is protected. “But, like other countries around the world, we should trade and seek investment when it is in our national interest to do so, and that will be the approach of this Government.”.
