Coffee House Shots What does Starmer want to achieve in China?
Jan 27, 2026
Sam Hogg, Oxford China Policy Lab researcher on UK-China relations. James Heale, Deputy Political Editor at The Spectator and political analyst. They discuss why Keir Starmer is visiting China now. They weigh engagement versus security, legal and economic constraints, human rights tensions, and opportunities in AI and targeted cooperation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Pragmatic Engagement Not A Golden Return
- Keir Starmer frames the China trip as realistic engagement rather than a return to a 'golden age'.
- He pairs the China visit with Japan to signal balance and reassure allies about broader regional ties.
Diminished Investment Returns
- Chinese FDI into the UK has sharply declined, so expectations for big investment returns are low.
- Starmer's tone is more sober than previous Labour overtures like Rachel Reeves's trip a year ago.
Security Constraints Shape Choices
- The UK must often choose alignment with security partners like the Five Eyes over deeper engagement with China.
- Britain's limited industrial and fiscal capacity constrains how hawkish it can be compared with the US.
