Labour Faces Criticism for Collapsed China Spy Trial Over 'Enemy' Label

The Labour government has come under intense scrutiny for its role in the collapse of the prosecution against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, who were accused of spying for China by passing sensitive government information. The case fell apart after Labour ministers withdrew a key government witness who was prepared to testify that China was an "enemy" of the UK, a legal necessity under the Official Secrets Act 1911 to secure a conviction. Despite assurances from the previous Conservative government that such evidence would be provided, Labour officials reversed this stance, prompting the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to drop the charges due to insufficient evidence. Labour security minister Dan Jarvis stated that the CPS's decision was independent of government influence, but critics, including MPs and opposition figures, have accused the government of prioritizing diplomatic relations and economic interests with China over national security. The controversy has raised constitutional concerns and questions about government transparency and accountability, with calls for explanations from Attorney General Lord Hermer and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The case has also sparked broader fears about the UK government's ability to protect itself against malign state threats, particularly from China.