Keir Starmer has pledged to release significant evidence related to a collapsed espionage case involving China in its entirety. The Prime Minister informed Members of Parliament that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) advised the government to disclose a crucial witness statement authored by Matthew Collins, the government’s deputy national security adviser.
The case against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, former parliamentary researcher, accused of passing secrets to China, was abruptly dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service on September 15. Both individuals, who maintain their innocence, had charges against them dismissed last month.
The discontinuation of the case prompted a rare comment from the director of public prosecutions (DPP), Stephen Parkinson, stating that evidence could not be obtained from the Government characterizing China as a national security threat. To establish the case under the Official Secrets Act, prosecutors would have needed to demonstrate that the defendants were acting for an “enemy.” Starmer asserted that the official’s witness statement reflected the Tory government’s stance on China at the time of the alleged incident.
Expressing disappointment over the case’s dismissal, the Prime Minister emphasized that reviews by the former Conservative government were cautiously phrased to avoid labeling China as an adversary. He highlighted that the previous government’s position aimed at enhancing national security measures in response to China’s perceived threats while maintaining avenues for constructive relations.
Starmer clarified that neither ministers nor special advisers under the current administration were involved in providing evidence. He expressed uncertainty regarding the previous government’s stance on the involvement of ministers or special advisers.
Under mounting pressure to disclose the government’s evidence, the Prime Minister disclosed that the CPS clarified the decision to release the witness statements rested with the government. Following legal counsel, he opted to publish the witness statement, promising full disclosure. He underscored that a swifter legislative update by the Conservatives could have led to the prosecution of the individuals involved, preventing the current situation.
Receive insights into UK politics with our daily email briefing delivered directly to your inbox for free.