Labour Minister Dismisses ‘baseless Smears’ Amid China Spy Case Scrutiny
London, October 13, 2025 – A Labour spokesperson has dismissed allegations linking the party and senior figures, including national security advisor Jonathan powell, too interference in a case involving individuals accused of spying for China as “baseless smears.” The response comes as pressure mounts for Powell to publicly address claims that interventions were made to protect trade relations with Beijing and prevent the formal designation of China as a threat.
The controversy centers on the case of two individuals, Berry and Cash, who have both denied allegations of espionage. Reports suggest that Powell and Treasury officials may have intervened to prevent evidence from being presented that would have labelled China a “threat,” potentially impacting the prosecution. The collapse of the trial has sparked accusations of political interference and raised concerns about the UK’s approach to national security.
Former security minister Tom Tugendhat, who chaired the China Research Group – which previously employed Cash – has publicly called for Powell to answer questions in a public forum, stating it is “very odd” that the national security advisor is not appearing openly before a committee. Tugendhat also questioned the credibility of claims that Labour leader Keir Starmer was unaware of the trial’s collapse, given his oversight of the civil service and role as First Lord of the Treasury.
Powell is scheduled to appear before MPs in a private hearing following his return from a diplomatic trip to the Middle East. Meanwhile, Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch has also sought answers from Starmer regarding the case’s collapse. The unfolding situation continues to fuel debate over the balance between economic interests and national security concerns in the UK’s relationship with China.