Tensions are escalating between Britain and China after UK authorities charged two individuals with violating the Official Secrets Act by providing information that could compromise national security.
Christopher Cash, a 29-year-old parliamentary researcher, and Christopher Berry, 32, were arrested in an investigation led by counter-terrorism police over allegations they improperly shared sensitive data with Chinese agents.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the two men are accused of obtaining and communicating “articles, notes, documents or information” that could potentially “be useful to an enemy” in a manner “prejudicial to the safety or interests of the state.”
Christopher Cash, who had access to several Conservative MPs as part of his role with the China Research Group, is alleged to have engaged in espionage activities between January 2022 and February 2023. Berry faces similar charges spanning from December 2021 through this February.
“We’ve worked closely with the Crown Prosecution Service as our investigation has progressed and this has led to the two men being charged today,” stated Counter Terrorism Command head Dominic Murphy, describing it as “an extremely complex investigation.”
While authorities have not disclosed specifics, reports indicate Cash had proximity to high-ranking officials like security minister Tom Tugendhat and the chairwoman of the foreign affairs committee. Such access has raised grave concerns over potential national security breaches.
Both men were granted bail but must appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on April 26th. Prosecutors have warned against public commentary that could “prejudice their right to a fair trial” as the highly sensitive case proceeds.
