The UK Government unveiled a sanctions package on Oct 15 targeting the Russian oil sector, which also ensnared a group of Chinese refineries, port operators and military tech firms that prop up trade.
Beijing’s commerce ministry said in a statement that Britain should “immediately correct its wrongful action” or else risk “a negative impact on the economic and trade relations between China and the UK”.
The ministry said it had lodged “diplomatic objections” with London, and vowed to “resolutely safeguard legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies”.
The bust-up comes as Labour battles the fallout from the collapsed prosecution of two British men accused of spying for China.
This has prompted claims that Sir Keir Starmer and his ministers are putting improved relations with China ahead of national security concerns.
Another flashpoint revolves around the planning permission for a new Chinese mega embassy in east London, where Beijing has threatened “consequences” if the Government withholds approval.
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The UK Government said four Chinese oil terminals had been sanctioned alongside an LNG terminal. Several Chinese firms were also sanctioned for their role in supporting or supplying Russia’s defence sector.
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Earlier this month, Lin Jian, China’s foreign ministry spokesman, said Beijing felt “grave concern and strong dissatisfaction” at the delay in approving its proposed new super-embassy in Tower Hamlets.
Mr Lin said the UK Government, which is yet to make a final planning decision, must “immediately fulfil its obligations and honour its commitments, otherwise the British side shall bear all consequences”.
Media reports this week have suggested that the Government has acquiesced to Chinese lobbying by dropping a proposed planning condition requiring a “hard security perimeter” around the site.
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