The UK Labour government has recently adjusted its initially planned comprehensive review of China relations, leaning towards a milder report aimed at improving economic ties with China. According to insider sources, this reflects Prime Minister Starmer's strategy of focusing on fostering economic growth and maintaining important trade partnerships.
According to foreign media reports on the 16th, before coming to power, the Labour Party had promised a one-year comprehensive review of China relations to assess the UK-China supply chain and relationship. However, the current plan has been reduced to a simplified review. Insiders indicate that this change supports Starmer’s economic growth agenda. A UK government spokesperson stated that the review is ongoing with the aim of establishing a long-term strategy for China relations.
This review involves a wide range of government officials, businesses, and academic experts. However, the current review mainly relies on internal government experts, and parts of the content will be made public. The report is expected to reaffirm the government’s 'Three C Strategy': Challenge, Compete, and Cooperation.
Insiders revealed that the Labour Party initially hoped to use the review to restrict goods from Xinjiang entering the UK supply chain and push for the international community to recognize China’s actions against Uyghurs as genocide, but these tough stances have now been abandoned. Additionally, the Labour leadership has taken a low-profile approach on Hong Kong issues in international forums.
Although UK intelligence agencies have been cautious about China in the past, they have recently adopted a more conciliatory tone. MI5 chief McCallum stated that UK-China economic cooperation aids UK growth, which is vital for national security. The UK Treasury is also preparing to resume high-level economic talks suspended since 2019, and Chancellor Reeves plans to visit Beijing next year.