Three people arrested under National Security Act

Three people have been arrested on suspicion of spying for China, as part of a Counter Terrorism Policing investigation.

Three men were arrested on Wednesday 4 March on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service, contrary to section 3 of the National Security Act, 2023. In this case, the foreign intelligence service is that of China.

A 39-year-old was arrested in London, a 68-year-old arrested in Powys and a 43-year-old in Pontyclun.

All three were detained under a Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

Searches were carried out at the addresses were the men were arrested, as well as further addresses in London, East Kilbride and Cardiff.

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: “We have seen a significant increase in our casework relating to national security in recent years, and we continue to work extremely closely with our partners to help keep the country safe and take action to disrupt malign activity where we suspect it.

“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.”

Scottish Labour MP Joani Reid has revealed that her husband is one of those arrested. In a statement, Reid said she is not part of her husband's business activities and asked for respect for her children's privacy. She also pointed out that she has never been to China or spoken on China-related matters in the House of Commons.