Lord Mandelson, a prominent figure in the Labour Party, has announced plans to improve UK-China relations under a potential Labour government. The former Business Secretary criticized the Conservative administration's approach, stating that Sir Keir Starmer would not isolate China as his predecessors did.
Mandelson, who played a crucial role in Labour's 1997 election victory, emphasized the importance of maintaining proper communication channels with China. He stated, "The British Government wants to, in time, recreate the strategic dialogue that Britain has had with China in the past."
This shift in policy comes after years of deteriorating relations between the two nations. The peak of warm UK-China ties occurred in 2015 during David Cameron's tenure as Prime Minister, symbolized by Cameron taking Xi Jinping for a traditional British pub experience.
However, the relationship soured following China's authoritarian crackdown on Hong Kong in 2020. This action led to a backlash from Western politicians and caused many businesses to relocate staff and investments to other hubs like Singapore.
Despite advocating for improved relations, Mandelson cautioned businesses about potential risks associated with operating in both American and Chinese economies. He advised, "You can operate your business in both the American and Chinese economies, but inevitably you've got to be mindful of any downside risks of doing so."
China skeptics have called for a formal shift in the UK's diplomatic stance to address concerns about security, surveillance, and human rights abuses. However, Baroness Chapman, a Foreign Office minister, recently stated that the government would cooperate with China where possible while challenging when necessary.
In August 2024, Xi Jinping urged Sir Keir Starmer to take a "long-term and strategic view" of their relationship during a phone call. The Chinese President expressed willingness for dialogue on an equal footing, emphasizing mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.
Mandelson, who informally advised Starmer during his time as opposition leader, has argued that the UK's re-engagement with China should be conditional on Beijing's condemnation of Russia's war against Ukraine. He stated, "It hangs like a cloud, frankly, over China's relationship with the whole of Europe. We would want to see China taking a more responsible approach to that conflict."
As the debate over UK-China relations continues, the Labour Party's approach under Starmer's leadership appears to be one of cautious engagement, balancing economic interests with concerns over human rights and international security.
"It was in danger of operating a boycott of Hong Kong and the necessary communication that Britain needs to maintain with China. And that's what is going to change under the new government."
This potential shift in foreign policy underscores the complex nature of international relations in an increasingly interconnected world, where economic interests often intersect with geopolitical concerns and human rights issues.