UK must be less dependent on China for critical minerals, says thinktank

Rare earth minerals being extracted at the Bayan Obo mine in Inner Mongolia, China. Photograph: China Stringer Network/Reuters

The UK must become less dependent on China for critical minerals, an influential thinktank has concluded before a government strategy decision in the spring.

In a report on rare earth minerals, which are essential components for hi-tech products from mobile phones to missiles, Labour Together said ministers should “de-risk” supply chains and reduce reliance on China by building partnerships with other countries.