The Attorney General, Victoria Prentis, is facing serious questions over her transparency after revelations emerged about an undisclosed meeting with Chinese officials that included representatives from the Prime Minister's Office.
Secret Meeting Sparks Controversy
According to newly uncovered information, Prentis held a significant meeting with Chinese counterparts where sensitive discussions took place regarding the operations of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The meeting's existence was only revealed through follow-up correspondence, leaving many to question why it wasn't properly documented in official transparency returns.
Mounting Pressure for Full Disclosure
Shadow Attorney General Emily Thornberry has led calls for complete transparency, demanding to know precisely which officials from Number 10 attended the meeting and what specific topics were discussed concerning the CPS. The lack of proper documentation has raised eyebrows across Westminster, with critics arguing it undermines government accountability.
The controversy centres on several key concerns:
- Why was the meeting with Chinese officials not properly declared?
- Which specific Prime Minister's Office representatives participated?
- What exact aspects of CPS operations were discussed with foreign officials?
- Whether this represents a pattern of insufficient transparency in foreign engagements
Government Response and Ongoing Scrutiny
While the Attorney General's office has acknowledged the meeting occurred, the incomplete documentation continues to fuel criticism from opposition parties and transparency advocates. The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about the thoroughness of ministers' transparency returns and the potential for undisclosed foreign influence in UK institutions.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are on the government to provide a comprehensive account of the meeting's participants and discussions, particularly given the sensitive nature of involving the Crown Prosecution Service in talks with foreign officials.
