A committee of British MPs has accused the government of improvising its China policy. The lawmakers warned that erratic decisions are increasing national security risks and leaving businesses unsure how to trade with Beijing.
The Business, Innovation, Science and Trade Committee found that ministers broke their promise to take a steady approach to China. The committee said decision-making has been inconsistent and that successive governments did not convince the public they had done enough to protect national security and economic resilience.
Britain's businesses cannot plan for the future when the government keeps making up its China policy as it goes along.
Liam Byrne, Labour MP and committee chair
The business department rejected that conclusion. It said its approach to China is consistent, that the relationship now rests on a more stable footing, and that more frequent talks with Beijing let officials raise concerns directly.
The report arrives after a period of shifting signals. Former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer pursued warmer relations with China, arguing that Britain could not pass up the economic opportunities, though he said national security would not be sacrificed. Some MPs criticized that push, citing alleged Chinese spying in the UK.
Andy Burnham, who succeeded Starmer, has not yet said how he intends to handle Beijing.
Britain must shape its own relationship with China, or risk having that relationship shaped for us in Washington or Beijing.
Liam Byrne, Labour MP and committee chair
What the committee wants
The MPs urged ministers to stop sensitive data from flowing to China. They also called for clear trading rules for companies and a ban on imported goods made with forced labor.
According to the committee, unpredictable policy and thin guidance have made it harder for British firms to do business with China. It proposed a system of red and green zones that would mark which areas of trade and investment are encouraged and which are off limits.
The committee also said Britain should demand fair terms from China. It recommended drawing up tariffs that could be applied if Beijing keeps subsidizing its industries or fails to grant fully reciprocal access to its market.
Technology, data and research
On technology, the report sought a ban on connected devices in critical national infrastructure. The MPs said cheap Chinese connected technology is now common across the UK and accused the government of putting diplomatic politeness ahead of national security.
Universities should receive quicker guidance before working on research with Chinese bodies, the committee said.
The government audited the UK-China relationship last year but has not released the full document, saying it includes classified information.
