UK making up China policy ‘as it goes along’, MPs warn
Summary
A UK parliamentary committee says the government has failed to deliver a consistent China strategy since taking office in 2024, leaving businesses uncertain and exposing the country to unmanaged risks. It warns that the UK could be pulled between Washington and Beijing or lose access to EU trade if it does not set clear policies on investment and competition.Key Facts
- The Commons business, innovation, science and trade committee said the government had not delivered the long-term China approach it promised in 2024.
- Committee chair Liam Byrne said uncertainty was making it harder for British businesses to plan and could put trade with the EU at risk.
- The report said trade with China brings benefits, including profitable business operations and access to low-cost imports and innovation.
- The committee cited the March decision to block Chinese company Ming Yang from building a £1.5bn wind energy plant in Scotland over unspecified security concerns.
- The report also described the emergency takeover of British Steel from its Chinese owners as reactive and opaque.
- The committee called for a China strategy with clearer rules, including a proposed ‘red zone’ barring Chinese investment in some industries and a ‘green zone’ encouraging trade.
- The report urged officials to prepare trade remedies, including possible tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, and said the government should consider aligning with EU measures.
- The EU has imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and is considering further trade measures, according to the article.
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