Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has called for urgent answers from the government following a major data breach that compromised the personal details of Afghan nationals who assisted British forces during the conflict.
The breach, which exposed email addresses and other sensitive information, has raised serious national security concerns, potentially putting lives at risk. Starmer described the incident as "deeply troubling" and demanded full transparency from ministers.
Government Under Fire
Speaking in Westminster, the Labour leader stated: "This is not just an administrative error – it's a fundamental failure of duty. Those who supported our troops deserve protection, not exposure to potential reprisals."
The controversy comes as the UK continues to face criticism over its handling of Afghan allies following the Taliban's return to power in 2021.
Security Implications
Security experts warn that the leaked information could be exploited by hostile actors, with one former intelligence officer calling it "a gift to the Taliban". The breach reportedly occurred during the processing of applications for the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) scheme.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to make a statement to Parliament this week as pressure mounts on the government to explain:
- How the breach occurred
- Who was responsible
- What measures are being taken to protect affected individuals
Meanwhile, charities working with Afghan refugees report increased anxiety among communities already living in fear of retaliation from the Taliban regime.
