Security staff at the Chinese embassy in London used electroshock batons against protesters outside the embassy premises in July and May 2024, according to multiple reports. Video footage obtained by The i Paper shows guards waving batons at protesters carrying the old British Hong Kong flag. Alicia Kearns, the Conservative shadow minister for national security, has called the weapons illegal in the UK and questioned whether the government authorized their possession by the embassy.

The debate centers on whether the actions violated UK law. Kearns argues the embassy may have broken regulations, while others suggest diplomatic immunity could shield the embassy from legal consequences. Tom Tugendhat raised concerns about China's influence on UK foreign policy, suggesting the UK should seek partnerships with Taiwan instead of China. Some users also highlighted opposition to the new Chinese embassy due to fears of 'spy dungeons' in its basement.

The community largely agrees the use of electroshock batons was illegal, but opinions diverge on whether the embassy can be held accountable. While some demand legal action, others acknowledge the complexities of diplomatic immunity. The incident has intensified scrutiny of UK-China relations and raised questions about the role of foreign embassies in domestic law enforcement.