Jonathan Powell, the UK's national security adviser, is set to appear before parliament for the first time amid questions about his role in the collapse of a major espionage trial involving two Britons accused of spying for China. The hearing, expected in the coming weeks, will be held privately by the joint committee on the national security strategy.
The trial of Christopher Cash, a former parliamentary aide, and Christopher Berry was abruptly dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service on 15 September, just days before it was due to begin. Both men denied the charges, and prosecutors stated the evidential standard was 'no longer met'. Downing Street has strongly denied any government interference in the decision.
Powell's involvement has come under scrutiny after reports that he attended a meeting with senior Whitehall officials, including Foreign Office permanent under-secretary Oliver Robbins, shortly before the charges were withdrawn. According to the Sunday Times, Powell informed the meeting that the government's evidence would rely on the national security strategy, which describes China as a 'geo-strategic challenge' rather than an 'enemy', making it unsuitable for court under the Official Secrets Act.
The appearance marks the end of a year-long standoff between the committee and ministers, who had previously refused to make Powell available for scrutiny, arguing that as a special adviser he was not subject to parliamentary accountability. Committee chair Matt Western accused ministers of 'eroding democratic norms' by using Powell's appointment status to avoid oversight.
Powell, a key figure in shaping foreign policy under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has been described as the de facto foreign secretary. He previously served as Tony Blair's chief of staff and helped negotiate the Good Friday Agreement. The intelligence and security committee is also expected to review the case as part of its regular oversight of UK security agencies.
