‘Partner of Labour MP’ among three arrested on suspicion of spying for China

The arrests took place in London and Wales.

The men were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service, contrary to section 3 of the National Security Act, 2023.

Officers arrested a 39-year-old man in London, a 68-year-old man in Powys, Wales, and a 43-year-old man in Pontyclun, Wales. All three remain in custody.

The Guardian reports that one of the men is the partner of a sitting Labour MP, whilst a second person is understood to be the partner of a former Labour MP.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: “Today’s arrests are part of a proactive investigation and while these are serious matters, we do not believe there to be any imminent or direct threat to the public relating to this.

“Our investigation continues, and we thank the public for their ongoing support.”

More to follow.