The New Statesman: politics and culture The UK needs a China reset
Oct 14, 2025
George Eaton, a political journalist, and Katie Stallard, a China expert in Washington, delve into the recent scandal surrounding a collapsed espionage case involving alleged Chinese spies. They explore claims that the UK government may have quashed the case to appease China, discussing the legal complexities and political fallout. Katie outlines China's global ambitions and the UK's delicate balancing act between economic ties and national security. They debate whether a new Cold War dynamic is emerging and propose strategies for a clearer UK approach to China.
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Why The China Spy Case Collapsed
- The trial of two men accused of spying for China collapsed due to evidential and legal complexities rather than clear political interference.
- Labour argues procedural limits from previous laws prevented prosecution while Conservatives claim political will could have changed that outcome.
Legal Timing Created A Prosecution Gap
- Case law set by a separate spying trial raised the evidential bar requiring China to have been officially designated a security threat at the time.
- The timing of offences before the 2023 National Security Act created a legal gap complicating charging under modern statutes.
Be Explicit About China's Threat
- Governments must publicly and candidly define China's behaviour instead of using euphemisms like 'systemic competitor'.
- Balance economic ties with clear security assessments to avoid being perceived as weak by Beijing.