Britain continues to seek closer ties with China despite nuclear deal delay

A computer generated image of the French energy producer's proposed two nuclear reactors, Hinkley Point C, at their Hinkley Point power plant in south-west England. PHOTO: AFP/EDF ENGERY

LONDON (REUTERS)- Britain will continue to seek a stronger relationship with China, a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Theresa May said on Monday (Aug 1) following the decision last week to delay approval of a partly Chinese-funded nuclear reactor project.

"With the role that China has to play on world affairs, on the global economy, on a whole range of international issues, we are going to continue to seek a strong relationship with China," the spokeswoman said.

Britain has cast doubt on a US$24 billion (S$32 billion) project with French utility EDF to build the UK's first new nuclear plant in decades, delaying a final decision on the plan just weeks after June's Brexit vote ushered May in as prime minister.

Asked whether national security would play a part in the review of the Hinkley Point nuclear project, the spokeswoman declined to comment on the review process.

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