Chinese embassy criticises ‘anti-China clamours’ after Yang Tengbo spy claim

The Chinese embassy in London has claimed that certain members of the UK Parliament have a "distorted view of China," following the disclosure on Monday of the identity of a businessman alleged to be a spy.

On Tuesday, a representative from the Chinese embassy stated that the “anti-China rhetoric” was an effort to “discredit China, attack the Chinese community in the UK, and disrupt the usual interactions between China and the UK.”

On Monday, London's high court removed a confidentiality order that had been applied in the case involving a Chinese businessman and associate of Prince Andrew, who is alleged to be a Chinese spy.

Yang Tengbo, the individual at the center of the controversy, requested that the court remove the anonymity order so he could confront what he believes are unfounded accusations made against him.

Multiple Members of Parliament had been thinking about using their parliamentary privileges to reveal Yang's identity even before the anonymity order was removed. Iain Duncan Smith, a former leader of the Conservative Party and a vocal opponent of the Chinese government, stated on Monday that the accusations against Yang represent only "the tip of the iceberg" when it comes to Chinese influence in the UK.

In 2023, Yang was barred from entering the UK by the home secretary at the time, Suella Braverman, who claimed it was for the benefit of the public. Over the last twenty years, Yang split his time between the UK and China, and in 2013, he received permanent residency in the UK.

Yang is alleged to be part of the united front work department, which is the division of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that focuses on exerting influence abroad. He refutes the claims that he is a Chinese spy.

In a recent comment, Yang expressed that he has become a casualty of the deteriorating relationship between the UK and China. He noted, "The political situation has shifted, and unfortunately, I am now a target of this change. When the relationship is positive and Chinese investments are valued, I find acceptance in the UK. However, when tensions rise, an anti-China attitude emerges, and I am pushed aside." He also mentioned his intention to challenge the decision that prevents him from entering the UK.

The spokesperson for the Chinese embassy stated, "The united front spearheaded by the Chinese Communist Party aims to unite different political parties and individuals from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and organizations. Its goal is to foster collaboration between the CCP and non-members, as well as to encourage personal interactions and friendship with other nations."

"This is completely transparent and beyond criticism. While some politicians in the UK have tried to denounce China's united front efforts, their attempts are bound to fall short."

Yang's situation has sparked discussions about how the UK government handles prominent Chinese individuals, especially given that security agencies have pointed out the risks of political meddling from China.

On Monday, Keir Starmer stood up for his administration's more transparent approach to Beijing, stating, "Engagement is essential."