Britain's security services have raised the alarm over a sustained espionage campaign targeting the heart of UK democracy.
Urgent Warning Issued to Parliament
Security Minister Dan Jarvis delivered a stark warning to the House of Commons on November 18, 2025, revealing that MI5 had issued an urgent espionage alert to MPs, Lords and parliamentary staff.
The minister explained that Chinese intelligence officers are systematically attempting to recruit individuals with access to sensitive information about Parliament and government operations.
Deceptive Recruitment Tactics Uncovered
According to intelligence findings, Chinese operatives are employing sophisticated cover stories, often posing as legitimate companies or external headhunters.
This covert activity aims to snare parliamentarians and their staff through what appears to be genuine professional approaches.
The threat extends beyond elected officials to include economists, think tank employees, geopolitical consultants and government officials - all valued for their networks and political access.
Government Response and International Diplomacy
Mr Jarvis emphasised that China maintains a remarkably low threshold for what information it considers valuable, making widespread vigilance essential.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has already confronted her Chinese counterpart, making clear that such interference in UK democratic institutions will not be tolerated.
The government is now taking concrete steps to address this threat, including measures to tackle covert political funding and develop new powers to counter foreign interference operations.
All parliamentary figures and their staff have been urged to maintain heightened awareness of these sophisticated recruitment attempts.
