The News Agents Is China trying to sabotage British Steel?
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Apr 14, 2025 Victor Gao, Vice President of the Centre for China and Globalisation, dives into the fraught relationship between the UK and China, particularly regarding British steel. He examines allegations of sabotage by the Chinese company Jingye and the government's strategies to protect local manufacturing. The conversation also touches on China's recent halt on critical mineral exports and its implications for UK industries. Throughout, Gao advocates for collaboration over suspicion, highlighting the complexities of navigating these geopolitical tensions.
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China's Suspected Sabotage of British Steel
- The UK government took control of British Steel due to concerns about China's intentions.
- Ministers suspect sabotage to make the UK reliant on cheaper Chinese steel.
Jingye's Alleged Tactics
- The Chinese company Jingye is accused of intentionally depleting raw materials at the British Steel plant.
- This was allegedly done to make the plant unsustainable and increase UK reliance on Chinese steel.
UK's Openness to Foreign Investment
- The UK has been more open to foreign investment, even in critical infrastructure, compared to other Western nations.
- This openness stems partly from the UK's long-term underinvestment in these areas.