Why did China refuse to fully explain its embassy plans?

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China's Refusal to Fully Explain Embassy Plans Stems from Client's View on Detail Appropriateness

China has declined to provide complete internal layout plans for its proposed embassy in London, with the planning consultancy DP9 stating that its client deemed it inappropriate to offer such detailed information. DP9 indicated that the additional drawings already submitted were sufficient for identifying the main uses of the facility and that further internal layout details were neither necessary nor appropriate. This stance has led to the British government extending its decision deadline to consider the responses further.
Redacted Plans Raise Questions of Sufficiency

The British government had requested clarification on why certain areas of the embassy plans were blacked out. DP9, acting on behalf of the Chinese government, responded by asserting that the unredacted plans provided an adequate level of detail for the intended purpose. The consultancy explicitly stated that providing more granular internal layout plans was considered unnecessary and unsuitable by their client.
Extended Deadline for British Government Review

In response to the ongoing concerns and the explanations provided, the British government's housing department has extended the deadline for a decision on the planning application. The original deadline of September 9 has been moved to October 21, allowing more time to thoroughly consider the submitted information and the nature of the redactions.
Criticisms of Explanations as Unsatisfactory

Luke de Pulford, executive director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, described the explanations offered as "far from satisfactory," likening the assurances to a "trust me bro" scenario. This group, which has connections to international politicians critical of China, highlighted the letter containing these explanations. The Chinese embassy in London has expressed "serious concern" regarding the British government's handling of the application, asserting that host countries have an international obligation to support the construction of diplomatic buildings.

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Why did China refuse to fully explain its embassy plans?

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