UK: Government Denies Interference Amid Chinese Espionage Trial Collapse

7 HOURS AGO·UPDATED 7 HOURS AGO

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Above: The entrance to 10 Downing Street, London, in July 2025. Image copyright: Mark Kerrison/In Pictures/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

The CPS made its independent decision based on evidential considerations alone. Powell took no decisions regarding witness evidence, and there was no material change in government testimony. These accusations represent dangerous speculation that undermines prosecutorial independence and threatens Britain's national security architecture with unfounded conspiracy theories.

Independent City AM

Opposition narrative

With Powell allegedly orchestrating the collapse of a crucial espionage prosecution, this government stands accused of betraying British democracy to appease Beijing. Denials ring hollow when evidence suggests calculated interference from the very top. If true, this represents an unconscionable surrender of national security principles for commercial expediency.

The Sun Daily Mail

Pro-China narrative

As always, allegations of espionage and interference in the U.K. by China are erroneous and malicious. If anything, it's the West who seeks to engage in covert operations against the likes of Beijing, fearful of the end of the Pax Americana. China remains open to collaboration with the U.K. for mutual benefit, but fear mongering such as this cannot be tolerated.

Chinese Embassy in London Chinadaily