Power grid security

UK-China nuclear deal could threaten national security

Deals with China to build nuclear power plants in the UK will give Beijing significant influence within Britain's infrastructure and is causing concern that national security could be at risk. Once finalised, the deal will see Chinese state-owned companies help build two nuclear power plants: Hinkley Point in Somerset and Sizewell in Suffolk.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will kick off his visit to the UK on 19 October, but it remains unclear whether the deal for Hinkley Point will be signed then. "Substantial progression has been made with regard to nuclear power," Chinese ambassador Liu Xiaoming told reporters at the country's embassy in central London. "Whether there will be a signing ceremony during this visit, I cannot say for 100%." The project will be built by French company EDF and the UK government has already announced its £2bn guarantee.