A UK parliamentary researcher, who was arrested on suspicion of spying for Beijing, has vehemently denied any involvement in espionage and refuted claims of being a “Chinese spy.” The man, whose identity remains undisclosed by UK authorities but is reported to be in his 20s, released a statement through his legal representatives asserting his innocence.
In the statement, the suspect responded to media accusations, stating, “I feel forced to respond to the media accusations that I am a ‘Chinese spy.’ It is wrong that I should be obliged to make any form of public comment on the misreporting that has taken place. However, given what has been reported, it is vital that it is known that I am completely innocent.”
He further explained his career focus, saying, “I have spent my career to date trying to educate others about the challenge and threats presented by the Chinese Communist Party. To do what has been claimed against me in extravagant news reporting would be against everything I stand for.”
The arrest of the researcher has raised concerns about potential Chinese interference in UK democracy. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed “very strong concerns” about Chinese interference to Premier Li Qiang during the G20 summit in India. Additionally, Lindsay Hoyle, the speaker of the UK’s House of Commons, was expected to make a statement on the matter.
UK police announced the arrest of the man in his 20s at his residence in Edinburgh over the weekend, with reports indicating he was a researcher within the UK’s parliamentary system. China responded to the allegations by referring to them as a “political farce.”
Another individual in his 30s was also arrested in connection with the case, with both arrests occurring in March on suspicion of offences under the Official Secrets Act. Both suspects have been released on bail until October.