Summary
The case against two men accused of spying for China collapsed because prosecutors lacked necessary evidence from the government. This has led to political arguments about who is responsible for the failed prosecution. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer blames the previous Conservative government, while current Tory leader Kemi Badenoch disputes this, leading to further political tensions.
Key Facts
- Two men, Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, were charged with spying for China under the Official Secrets Act.
- The charges related to actions between December 2021 and February 2023.
- In September, prosecutors dropped the case as they could not get enough evidence to label China a national security threat at the time.
- Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson said government witness statements were insufficient for prosecution.
- The decision to drop charges sparked a political dispute over responsibility for the trial's collapse.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that China's status during the alleged offences was based on the former Conservative government’s stance.
- Tory leader Kemi Badenoch disagrees, implying the current government's intent is to maintain good relations with China.
- The government's approach to China is defended as being in the UK's national interests, despite accusations of weakness on security issues.
