Plans for a Chinese mega embassy in London could bring "security advantages", the prime minister's official spokesperson has said, despite security fears from opponents.
No 10 highlighted the security advantage of consolidating the seven Chinese sites currently dotted around the capital, as the date for a decision on whether to grant planning permission was pushed back for a third time - into the new year.
Some believe China's mega embassy, if it gets the go-ahead, would be a huge hub in the heart of London for espionage.
However, the government is expected to give the green light to the embassy on 20 January next year.
This is the third time a decision on whether to give the go-ahead for the embassy has been pushed back, and this delay is understood to be so there is more time to consult all those involved.
