Minister says Jonathan Powell played no role in decision to halt China spy trial

Описание: Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has insisted a high-profile government aide was not involved in a decision not to halt legal proceedings against two men accused of spying for China.

The government said the CPS had dropped the case against Christopher Cash, 30, a former parliamentary researcher, and teacher Christopher Berry, 33, because the previous government had not designated China a threat to national security.

However, there had been speculation that Jonathan Powell, the national security adviser, was involved in the decision.

Ms Phillipson said she "can give that assurance" that the case was not withdrawn because of the influence of Mr Powell.

Live updates: https://news.sky.com/story/politics-l...

#china #spying #nationalsecurity #politicshub

SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel for more videos:    / skynews  
Follow us on Twitter:   / skynews  
Like us on Facebook:   / skynews  
Follow us on Instagram:   / skynews  
Follow us on TikTok:   / skynews  

For more content go to http://news.sky.com and download our apps: Apple https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/sky-n... Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...

Sky News Daily podcast is available for free here: https://podfollow.com/skynewsdaily/

To enquire about licensing Sky News content, you can find more information here: https://news.sky.com/info/library-sales