UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves defends China visit despite reported controversy

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has defended her visit to China despite looming criticism, claiming the strengthened economic relationship could “unlock tangible benefits” for British businesses. Ms Reeves arrived in Beijing on Saturday to meet with Chinese government officials, hoping to improve economic ties and discuss investment opportunities. Sky News UK has reported critics have accused Ms Reeves of avoiding calls from opposition parties to cancel the international visit and instead address the country’s economic woes. The chancellor has stood by her budget, saying it is “non-negotiable”. “The fiscal rules that I set out in my budget in October are non-negotiable and growth is the number one mission of this government to make our country better off, and that’s why I am in China – to unlock tangible benefits for British businesses exporting and trading around the world,” Ms Reeves said. The Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey and additional senior executives accompanied the chancellor.