The British Labour government has modified its planned audit of the country's relations and supply chains with China, aiming for a swifter and less comprehensive review. Initially, the Labour Party had announced intentions for a thorough, potentially year-long audit, considering China as the nation's most significant long-term threat according to security services. However, the current approach is set to be less detailed and may result in a report that is less critical of China.
This shift aligns with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's agenda to enhance economic connections with China, an essential trading partner. Two sources highlighted this economic focus as a driving factor behind the decision to scale back the audit's scope. Despite these changes, a government spokesperson affirmed that the audit process is active and is intended to establish a consistent, strategic, and long-term approach to managing UK-China relations.
The government is keen to conclude the audit before the upcoming U.S. presidential inauguration, although the exact completion date might be postponed, as indicated by three informed sources. The Chinese embassy in London has not issued any statements regarding the audit. With the revised audit underway since October, the government's aim is to balance national security considerations with the pursuit of economic growth through international trade.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.