article_snippet: The Prime Minister's official spokesman said the deal was in Britain's 'national interest' and Sir Christopher Hum, a former British ambassador to China, said there were direct benefits potentially for British industry.'
article_snippet: But a senior official went further, telling the Financial Times that the deal appeared to be part of a trend towards ‘constant accommodation’ of China by UK.
article_snippet: George Osborne (pictured during a visit to Beijing last year) says joining the World Bank will help Britain promote commercial ties with Asia .
article_snippet: Chancellor George Osborne said in a statement that joining will help Britain promote commercial ties with Asia. '
article_snippet: This government has actively promoted closer political and economic engagement with the Asia-Pacific region and forging links between the UK and Asian economies to give our companies the best opportunity to work and invest in the world
highlights_snippet: But Britain says joining will help UK promote commercial ties with Asia .