MPs criticise Britain’s inconsistent strategy on China and economic reliance

The writer argues that Britain is too economically dependent on China and lacks a consistent strategy for dealing with Beijing, leaving the country exposed to its influence. Citing a new parliamentary committee report, the article criticises successive governments for repeating warnings about security and trade risks without setting clear limits or following through.

The committee, chaired by Labour MP Liam Byrne, described the Government’s China policy as reactive, inconsistent and opaque. The article disputes the report’s view that cheap Chinese imports help consumers facing squeezed incomes, arguing that they can undercut British industries; it also criticises Labour’s domestic economic policies and Andy Burnham’s meeting with China’s consul general in Manchester.