Overview

• The Crown Prosecution Service dropped charges on September 15 against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, with lead prosecutor Tom Little KC telling the court, "We simply cannot continue to prosecute this case."
• Downing Street says neither ministers nor officials influenced the decision, rejecting reports that evidence was withheld, witnesses were withdrawn, or testimony was restricted.
• Media reports describe a Whitehall dispute and a meeting led by National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell over whether China could be described as an enemy, claims No.10 disputes as inaccurate.
• Government officials say any evidence had to reflect the previous Conservative administration’s policy during 2021–2023, which labeled China a challenge rather than an enemy, not the 2025 strategy.
• Parliamentary scrutiny is intensifying as committees seek Powell’s testimony and the Commons Speaker explores options including a private prosecution, while separate reports say Beijing warned of retaliation over tougher foreign influence rules.