Summary
Prosecutors in the UK dropped charges against two men accused of spying for China because they couldn't get the evidence needed to prove China was a national security threat. The case fell through partly due to government guidelines and changes in how spying cases are handled under the Official Secrets Act. The men, Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, denied the allegations, and the UK government expressed frustration over the case collapse.
Key Facts
- Two men, Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, were accused of spying for China but had their charges dropped.
- UK prosecutors couldn't obtain enough evidence from the government to show China as a national security threat.
- The government relied on an older assessment of China that described it as a significant challenge but not a threat.
- A previous spying case involving Bulgarian nationals raised the standard of evidence needed under the Official Secrets Act.
- The UK's top prosecutor said despite efforts, the needed evidence to continue the case wasn't provided.
- The UK government denied withholding evidence or restricting witnesses.
- The UK is reviewing its relationship with China, with efforts to improve ties following the last election.
