Written question asked by Mike Wood (Conservative) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 September 2026. It was answered by Chris Elmore (Labour) on Wednesday, 16 September 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

China: Foreign Relations

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what is his policy on (a) cultural, (b political and (c) economic engagement within the Communist Party of China.

Answer: Our approach to China is clear-eyed and rooted in the UK national interest. We are cooperating with China where we can, to address global challenges as fellow permanent members of the UN Security Council, including on climate, international development, global health, and trade. But we are also acting firmly to protect our national security, economic resilience and values. On human rights in China, the UK stands firm. We continue to encourage respect for freedom of religion or belief, cultural expression and linguistic rights, and we raise this directly with the Chinese authorities at senior levels.

Secondary information