Three Men, Including Labour MP's Husband, Bailed in UK China Spy Probe

Three men suspected of spying for China, including the husband of Labour MP Joani Reid, have been released on bail until May as the investigation continues, according to the Metropolitan Police.

David Taylor, 39, who is married to Scottish Labour MP Joani Reid, was detained on 4 March alongside two other men aged 43 and 68 during coordinated arrests across London and Wales. The investigation is led by counter-terrorism police under the National Security Act 2023, with all three accused of aiding a foreign intelligence service.

Following the arrests, searches were conducted at multiple addresses, including properties in London, Cardiff, and East Kilbride. Officers also examined a car outside a property in Pontyclun, Rhondda Cynon Taf.

In a statement, MP Joani Reid said she had "never seen anything to make me suspect my husband has broken any law" and stressed she was "not part of" his business activities. Taylor is listed as a lobbyist on Reid's parliamentary register of interests.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis informed MPs that Chinese officials both in the UK and Beijing had been formally notified about the investigation, describing it as relating to "foreign interference targeting UK democracy."

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, stated there has been a "significant increase" in national security casework in recent years. She noted that while the investigation is serious, there is "no imminent or direct threat to the public relating to this."

The arrests prompted political reactions in Wales, with the Welsh Conservatives calling for First Minister Eluned Morgan to address the Senedd. The request was rejected by the Presiding Officer, and the Welsh government said it does not comment on ongoing police investigations.

Police confirmed searches were carried out at the arrest locations and three additional addresses, and the investigation continues as the suspects remain on bail.