In recent years, relations between Britain and China have been strained by tit-for-tat spying accusations. Government and Security Agency ReactionsAsked about the reports in parliament, security minister Dan Jarvis declined to give any further details. The latest arrests were made under the National Security Act passed in 2023, introduced to give greater powers to tackle foreign interference. "We will always challenge any country, including China, that attempts to interfere with or undermine the integrity of our democratic institutions," Jarvis said. "We will always prioritise UK national security."

Source: The Times March 04, 2026 12:54 UTC