MI5 warns MPs about espionage risk

MI5 has warned MPs and members of the House of Lords about the threat of espionage from the Chinese state.

House of Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and House of Lords speaker Lord McFall have distributed an espionage alert.

Sir Lindsay warned that Chinese-linked operatives are attempting to disrupt parliamentary processes and exert influence.

He said that China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) has been making contact with people connected to Parliament, aiming to gather intelligence and establish long-term ties. 

The warning specifically highlights two LinkedIn profiles which are believed to be used on behalf of the MSS. The LinkedIn profiles allegedly act as "civilian recruitment head-hunters", recruiting individuals working in British politics for the MSS.

MPs and peers are also urged to be wary of all-expenses paid trips to China, and payment for information through cash or cryptocurrency.

Targets could include Parliament staff, economists, think tank employees, geo-political consultants and those working alongside the government.