Summary
The national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, did not make decisions about evidence in a spy case involving two men accused of spying for China. The charges against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry were dropped because the government did not provide necessary evidence, with discussions focusing on whether China was labeled a national security threat. Security Minister Jarvis stated the national security adviser was not involved in the evidence decisions.
Key Facts
- Jonathan Powell, national security adviser, did not decide on evidence in the China spy case.
- Charges against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, accused of being Chinese spies, were dropped.
- The government reportedly did not provide "vital information" needed for the prosecution.
- The case was impacted by whether China was considered a national security threat.
- The Director of Public Prosecutions noted a precedent requiring China to be labeled a threat.
- Security Minister Jarvis said Powell did not interfere in evidence decisions.
- The Official Secrets Act of 1911, under which charges were initially made, has been replaced by the 2023 National Security Act.
