China's global ambitions

Li Qiang/Rishi Sunak. AP  

China's global ambitions

Analysis: British concern about China's espionage is growing 

The arrest of a suspected Chinese spy in the British Parliament has caused concern in London, and could lead to tighter recruitment rules, writes Tamara Cohen for Sky News. 

Critics, however, see the government's concerns as half-witted and belated, and do not lend much weight to claims that the UK is one of the most hawkish countries on Beijing, she continues.  

"Those who have warned of Chinese interference for years fear that the government is still lagging behind."  

Just a couple of years ago, London was careful not to upset Beijing, but at the G-20 meeting, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pointed out clearly against "Chinese influence attempts" in talks with his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang, writes Dan Sabbagh for The Guardian. 

It is clear that an era of competition between states is back, he continues.  

"Nothing is more reminiscent of the Cold War than agents of a foreign power in Britain." 

Palace of Westminster, Great Britain's Parliament building. Wikimedia Commons  

Suspected Chinese spy arrested in UK  

A researcher in international relations who worked at the British Parliament was arrested in March on suspicion of spying for China. It reveals The Sunday Times. 

 The man is said to have had some type of connection with Security Minister Tom Tugendthat, but details are scarce. He must have lived in China for a period, according to the BBC. 

During the operation last spring, two men were arrested, one in his 20s and one in his 30s. It is unclear which of them is the current researcher, and what the other is suspected of. They were later released on bail, and a trial is scheduled for October.