UK PM Starmer Faces Scrutiny Over Collapsed China Spy Trial Involving Top Security Adviser

Sir Keir Starmer's government is under intense scrutiny following the collapse of a high-profile espionage trial against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, accused of spying for China. The case collapsed after it was revealed that Jonathan Powell, the UK's national security adviser and a close ally of Starmer, reportedly instructed that China could not be described as an "enemy" in court, undermining the legal basis for the prosecution under the Official Secrets Act. This decision raised concerns that political considerations influenced the independent Crown Prosecution Service, with allegations that ministers, including Starmer, may have approved the stance to avoid labeling China as an adversary, possibly to preserve diplomatic relations amid economic pressures. The trial involved accusations that sensitive information about UK government policies and China-sceptic MPs was passed to a senior Chinese Communist Party official, highlighting significant national security implications. Critics, including Conservative MPs, argue that the government's soft approach to China has compromised legal proceedings and national security, with calls for transparency and accountability from Starmer's administration. The Cabinet Office has denied any material change in policy or restrictions on evidence, but questions remain about the extent of political interference in the case.