Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

UK's China Policy Under Fire Amid Spy Prosecution Collapse

10/28/2025

38 9

Summary

Story summary

Lead barrister Tom Little KC calls the government's refusal to label China as a threat a 'total roadblock' that contributed to prosecution of two alleged spies.
Matthew Collins, UK's deputy national security adviser, said he was surprised by the collapse and was instructed to align his statements with government policy.
The episode raises concerns about the UK's China policy under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who seeks closer ties with Beijing.

1 of 1

Story summary

Lead barrister Tom Little KC calls the government's refusal to label China as a threat a 'total roadblock' that contributed to prosecution of two alleged spies.
Matthew Collins, UK's deputy national security adviser, said he was surprised by the collapse and was instructed to align his statements with government policy.
The episode raises concerns about the UK's China policy under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who seeks closer ties with Beijing.