Keir Starmer has released crucial evidence related to a collapsed case involving alleged Chinese espionage activities, revealing extensive operations conducted by Beijing.
The decision by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to dismiss charges against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, who were accused of sharing information with China, sparked controversy. The charges against the two individuals were abruptly dropped recently.
In response to growing pressure, three witness statements provided by the government’s deputy national security adviser, Matthew Collins, to the CPS were made public on Wednesday evening. The initial statement, issued under the Conservative government in December 2023, highlighted China as a significant challenge and emphasized the country’s proficient intelligence services engaged in large-scale espionage activities against the UK.
The disclosed information suggested that such actions could potentially jeopardize the UK’s security and interests. Nonetheless, the government expressed intentions to maintain open and constructive relations with China while addressing security concerns.
In subsequent statements, one under the current Labour government earlier this year and another dated August 2025, Mr. Collins reiterated China’s status as a challenge and emphasized the threat of espionage. The government’s stance emphasized a commitment to fostering a positive relationship with China while acknowledging the necessity to address national security issues.
During a session of PMQs, Keir Starmer clarified that the evidence provided reflected the former Tory government’s perspective on Beijing during the relevant period. He highlighted the careful wording used by the previous government to avoid labeling China as an enemy, focusing instead on enhancing security measures and fostering constructive diplomatic ties.
Starmer emphasized that under the current government, no ministers or special advisers were involved in providing evidence. He also indicated a willingness to investigate the previous administration’s approach regarding ministerial or advisory involvement.
Former aide to Boris Johnson, Dominic Cummings, asserted that China had compromised a Whitehall data transfer system used for sensitive government information. However, a Cabinet Office spokesperson refuted these claims, stating that the integrity of critical government information transfer systems remained intact.
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