Main content

The China Threat

A parliamentary report warns China could exert political and economic influence in the UK unless the government takes swift action. So what is the threat posed by Chinese interest?

The government needs to radically change its approach to Chinese ambitions in the UK according to a report by Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee. The report says Chinese investment in the UK has gone unchecked. It warns that allowing China to develop significant stakes in industry and infrastructure was short-sighted and, unless swift action is taken, β€œChina will have a pliable vehicle through which it can export its values”.

So just how much interest and influence does China have in the UK?

David Aaronovitch talks to:

Isabel Hilton, founder China Dialogue Trust
Charles Parton, Former UK diplomat and senior research fellow at RUSI
Professor Steve Tsang, Director of the SOAS China Institute
Patrick Wintour, Diplomatic Editor, The Guardian

Produced by: Kirsteen Knight, Claire Bowes and Ben Carter
Edited by: Richard Vadon
Sound Engineer: Graham Puddifoot
Production co-ordinator: Debbie Richford and Sophie Hill

Available now

29 minutes

Last on

Fri 21 Jul 2023 11:00

Broadcasts

  • Thu 20 Jul 2023 20:00
  • Fri 21 Jul 2023 11:00

Podcast