Chancellor Rachel Reeves claims £600 million in trade deals from China visit despite criticism

Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended her recent trip to China, claiming it resulted in £600 million in trade deals for the UK over the next five years. She emphasized the importance of a long-term relationship with China for national interests. Reeves is the first Chancellor to visit China since 2019. During her meetings, she discussed trade, investment, and climate cooperation with Vice-Premier He Lifeng, despite criticism regarding the timing amid rising government borrowing costs. Critics, including Tory MP Tom Tugendhat, accused Reeves of appearing vulnerable during her visit. He expressed concerns about the UK's economic situation and questioned the effectiveness of her trip in changing relations with China.