Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has delivered a significant foreign policy address, acknowledging that China continues to represent a national security threat to the UK, even as his government seeks to build a more stable relationship with Beijing.
A Nuanced Approach to a Global Power
Speaking at the annual Lady Mayor's Banquet at Guildhall in central London, the Prime Minister argued that refusing to engage with the world's second-largest economy would be "a dereliction of duty". He positioned his strategy as a middle path, rejecting a "binary choice" between the so-called "golden age" of relations under David Cameron and the "ice age" of recent Conservative administrations.
Sir Keir described China as a nation of immense scale, ambition, and ingenuity, calling it "a defining force in technology, trade and global governance". However, he was unequivocal on the risks, stating: "At the same time, it also poses to the UK." He emphasised that security is not a bargaining chip, adding: "We don't trade off security in one area, for a bit more economic access somewhere else."
Security First, Then Cooperation
The Prime Minister framed his approach as one where protecting national security is the non-negotiable foundation. "Protecting our security is non-negotiable - our first duty," he stated. "But by taking tough steps to keep us secure, we enable ourselves to co-operate in other areas."
He provided clear examples, asserting that in defence, artificial intelligence, and critical national infrastructure, the UK will always protect its security and economic interests. Conversely, in areas deemed low-risk, the government will give businesses the "confidence, clarity and support" they need to seize opportunities, with appropriate safeguards in place.
Context: The Shadow of the Westminster Spy Case
Sir Keir's speech comes amid heightened scrutiny of his China policy, largely triggered by the collapse of a high-profile espionage case earlier this year. The prosecution of Christopher Cash, 30, and Christopher Berry, 33, who were accused of spying for China, was halted after a key government witness refused to describe China as a threat to UK national security.
This sparked a political row, with allegations that the government had undermined the case to preserve relations with Beijing—a claim ministers strongly denied. The episode has placed the Labour government's balancing act between security and engagement under a powerful microscope.
Broader Foreign Policy Vision: Internationalism as Patriotism
Beyond China, the Prime Minister used his Guildhall speech to champion a robustly internationalist stance, warning against a "corrosive, inward-looking attitude". He criticised politicians advocating for leaving the European Convention on Human Rights or NATO, accusing them of offering "grievance rather than hope" and a "declinist vision of a lesser Britain".
"In these times, we deliver for Britain by looking outward with renewed purpose and pride, not by shrinking back," Sir Keir declared. "In these times, internationalism is patriotism." He argued the world is more dangerous and unstable than at any point for a generation, making engagement essential.
Since taking office last year, Sir Keir has been active diplomatically, striking deals with the US, India, and the EU, and leading support for Ukraine. However, he faces criticism from opponents who accuse him of prioritising global summits over domestic issues, a charge his team rejects as they seek to define Britain's post-Brexit role on the world stage.
