MPs warned they're targets of China and Russia agents

MI5 has warned MPs that they are being targeted by China, Russia and Iran through espionage in a shock warning.

- DAVID MADDOX POLITICAL EDITOR

In a caution posted by the government ahead of a Commons statement by security minister Dan Jarvis, intelligence chiefs issued new guidance to protect Britain’s democracy from foreign agents.

The warning noted that elected representatives and those who work with them may be targeted for their access to information, their ability to shape policy or public opinion, or their relationships with others of interest.

This includes not only classified material but also privileged or insider knowledge that foreign intelligence services find valuable. This could be through attempts to exploit overseas travel, online activity, and financial donations as routes to access and influence.

MI5 director general, Sir Ken McCallum, said: “When foreign states steal vital UK information or manipulate our democratic processes, they don’t just damage our security in the short term, they erode the foundations of our sovereignty and ability to protect our citizens’ interests.

“Everyone reading this guidance cares deeply about the role they play in UK democracy. Take action today to protect it - and yourself.”

It comes as Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle expressed his fury at the collapse of the China spy trial involving former parliamentary researchers.