The Daily T "Grant Shapps has questions to answer": Jacob Rees-Mogg on the Afghan MoD data breach
Jul 16, 2025
Jacob Rees-Mogg, a senior MP, dives into the controversial Afghan MoD data breach that exposed sensitive information about 25,000 Afghan allies. He examines the implications of a superinjunction that shielded the government from scrutiny and discusses accountability for the leak. Rees-Mogg also shares insights on the challenges faced by Afghan partners in seeking relocation to the UK, and the intersection of political responsibility and economic crises affecting the nation. His perspective raises essential questions about government transparency and public trust.
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Massive Afghan Data Breach Cover-Up
- The Afghan MoD data breach involved leaking details of 25,000 Afghan soldiers, putting their lives at risk.
- A government super injunction covered up the breach, blocking media reporting to protect these individuals and avoid scandal.
Delayed Disclosure Undermines Security Claims
- The data breach was unknown to ministers for 18 months, undermining the official security rationale for secrecy.
- The claimed risk to Afghan lives from the leak was questionable given the delay and media exposure already present.
Use Parliamentary Privilege to Expose Truths
- Journalists should use parliamentary privilege by petitioning MPs to reveal censored information legally.
- This protects whistleblowers and allows disclosure without legal penalties from injunctions.