Barbara Woodward, the UK’s former ambassador to China, is expected to be named Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s new deputy national security adviser. According to a Bloomberg report, she will take up the role later this year as the Labour government strengthens its foreign policy team.

In June, Woodward narrowly missed becoming the first woman to head MI6. She was on the final shortlist but lost out to Blaise Metreweli, who got the job.

Sources familiar with the matter told Bloomberg about her appointment on condition of anonymity.

China Expert at the Core of UK’s Security

If confirmed, Woodward’s appointment will place a China specialist at the heart of the UK’s national security. This comes at a time when Britain’s ties with Beijing remain strained.

The UK’s latest defence review called China a “sophisticated and persistent challenge.” Still, Starmer is seeking a cautious reset in relations, hoping closer economic ties can help Britain’s growth.

Woodward’s Long Experience with China

Woodward knows China well. She served as deputy envoy in Beijing from 2007 to 2009 and later returned as ambassador from 2015 to 2020. During this time, she oversaw what was known as the “golden era” in UK-China relations.

That period included President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Britain and a deepening of trade and investment links.

However, ties worsened later. The UK raised concerns about Beijing’s curbs on freedoms in Hong Kong and alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang. Britain has also been worried about cybersecurity threats linked to China.

Starmer Pushes for Economic Engagement

Since taking office, Starmer has tried to improve ties with China to boost the economy. Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have already visited Beijing.

However, momentum has slowed since US President Donald Trump returned to the White House. His tougher stance on China has influenced global relations.

Although Starmer has not yet visited China, Politico reported on Wednesday that he plans to go early next year. Before that, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds is expected to visit to restart trade talks between London and Beijing for the first time since 2019.

Role in National Security Team

If appointed, Woodward will join two other deputies under National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell. Powell is known for his role in negotiating peace in Northern Ireland as an aide to former Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Meanwhile, Christian Turner, Political Director at the Foreign Office, will replace Woodward in New York at the end of the year. Turner has also served as a deputy national security adviser in the past.