Labour MP’s Husband Among Three Arrested in UK Over China Spying Allegations

LONDON, March 4, 2026 – British counter-terrorism police arrested three men on Wednesday suspected of aiding a foreign intelligence service, with one identified as the husband of Labour MP Joani Reid, heightening fears of Chinese interference in UK democracy.

The Metropolitan Police detained a 39-year-old man in London, a 68-year-old in Powys, Wales, and a 43-year-old in Pontyclun, Wales, under the National Security Act 2023. All remain in custody following searches at multiple addresses, including London, East Kilbride, and Cardiff, but no formal charges have been filed. MP Joani Reid, who represents East Kilbride and Strathaven in Scotland, confirmed her husband David Taylor—aged 39—was among those arrested, denying any knowledge of wrongdoing or her own involvement. “I have never seen anything to make me suspect my husband has broken any law,” she stated publicly.

Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing London emphasized there is no imminent public threat, though national security cases have surged recently. Security Minister Dan Jarvis told Parliament the probe targets “covert activity from Chinese state-linked actors” undermining UK policymaking, with concerns raised directly to Beijing.

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Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s approach to China, citing his recent Beijing visit as naive amid repeated espionage claims, including MI5 warnings about recruitment via LinkedIn and front companies. Beijing dismisses the accusations as slander.​

This incident follows prior UK cases, like charges against two men in 2024 for passing secrets to China, underscoring persistent tensions. Police continue investigations with Welsh and Scottish partners.