The UK government is facing severe criticism following a significant data breach that compromised the personal information of Afghan citizens who assisted British forces during the conflict. Defence Secretary John Healey has called for immediate action, labelling the incident as a "serious failure" in data protection protocols.
What Happened?
An internal investigation revealed that sensitive details, including names and contact information of Afghan interpreters and other personnel, were inadvertently leaked. The breach has raised alarms over the safety of those who supported UK troops, many of whom are already at risk of Taliban reprisals.
Healey's Response
John Healey, the Shadow Defence Secretary, has demanded transparency and accountability from the Ministry of Defence. In a strongly worded statement, he emphasised the need for urgent measures to prevent such lapses in the future. "This is not just a bureaucratic error—it’s a matter of life and death for those affected," Healey said.
Implications for Afghan Allies
The breach has intensified concerns about the UK's handling of Afghan resettlement schemes. Many who worked alongside British forces are still awaiting relocation, and this incident has further eroded trust in the system. Advocacy groups warn that the leaked data could put lives in danger.
Next Steps
The Ministry of Defence has pledged a full review of its data handling procedures. Meanwhile, affected individuals are being contacted and offered support. However, critics argue that more robust safeguards are needed to protect vulnerable applicants.
