Скачать или смотреть Jonathan Powell made no decisions about evidence in China spy case minister says

Jonathan Powell made no decisions about evidence in China spy case, minister says
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*Minister Denies National Security Adviser's Involvement in Collapsed China Spy Case Evidence*

In a significant development within the UK political landscape, a minister has asserted that Jonathan Powell, the government's national security adviser, played no role in deciding the content of evidence related to the collapsed China spy trial. The trial involved charges against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, who deny being Chinese spies. Prosecutors unexpectedly dropped the charges in September.

The controversy intensified as Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused the government of withholding "vital information" from the Crown Prosecution Service, suggesting a motive to "curry favour" with China. This claim comes amidst broader pressure on Sir Keir Starmer regarding the trial's collapse, with the opposition demanding answers.

Minister Jarvis, addressing Parliament, refuted claims that Mr. Powell had determined China could not be classified as a national security threat during a meeting. Jarvis clarified that while Mr. Powell participates in national security discussions, his involvement did not extend to deciding the substance of the evidence. He stated that deputy national security adviser Matthew Collins provided witness statements under the previous Conservative government, with no interference from ministers or special advisers regarding the evidence's content.

Jarvis emphasized that the evidence provided was based on existing law and the former government's stance on China. He attributed the trial's collapse to the CPS being "hamstrung by antiquated legislation," highlighting the recently replaced Official Secrets Act. The minister denied any government concealment or restriction of evidence, pointing to the CPS's evolving case law assessment as the primary reason for the charges being dropped.

Conversely, Badenoch cited instances where Conservative ministers and government documents had indeed labeled China a "threat," countering the minister's narrative. She suggested that prioritizing economic ties with China over due process and national security may have influenced the government's actions. The Liberal Democrats have called for transparency, demanding the publication of all correspondence between the deputy national security adviser and the CPS, and have stated that the ultimate responsibility lies with the Prime Minister. If you like our content, don't forget to like and subscribe to our channel, NEWS TODAY.
https://www.bbc.co.uk