Foreign Interference 2025-12-11

Committed the hon. Member for securing a timely debate on national security strategy challenges. He emphasised the importance of moving closer to European partners due to the breakdown in belief in rule of law and democracy, especially with examples like Georgia.

Russia views its democratic neighbours to the west as weak and vulnerable. The UK has committed to standing with Ukraine for as long as it takes, providing £4.5 billion in financial aid and military support this year. Russia seeks to slowly slice away at our defences and trust until freedoms are carved away. Reform UK’s former leader Nathan Gill took Russian bribes; his party links to Putin need investigating. In my constituency, we have seen attacks like an arson attack on a warehouse storing Ukraine aid and Islamophobic graffiti targeting mosques. Investing in security is essential for the safety of our democracy.

Swallow argues that social media platforms are being used by foreign actors, particularly Russia, Iran, and China, to sow division and undermine democratic institutions. He discusses Russian state-affiliated activities on various online channels, including the use of bot farms to spread disinformation. Swallow also highlights the importance of media literacy in countering misinformation and urges social media companies to take proactive steps to curb foreign interference under the Online Safety Act 2003.

Law responds by acknowledging the increasing concern over foreign interference but criticises the lack of coherent response from the UK government. He emphasises that heightened aggression and economic competition create opportunities for hostile states to exploit vulnerabilities, including through espionage, cyber-attacks, disinformation, and electoral interference.

Russia's malign intentions have been clear for years, yet the UK Government underfunded and delayed responses. The SNP supports a dedicated Minister for homeland security as recommended by the Defence Committee to address threats from Russia and China.

Britain's security is crucial for its prosperity, especially with foreign interference in politics and elections. Paid access by foreign actors threatens democracy, as seen in the case of Nathan Gill who was bribed to spread Kremlin narratives. The regime needs reforming urgently.

Reform UK is under threat from bad-faith actors, particularly concerning Russian interference. The case of Nathan Gill, serving a sentence for taking Russian bribes, highlights the issue. Urgent action is needed to address foreign influence in UK politics, including a robust elections Bill and an investigation similar to the Mueller report.

The debate highlighted external threats undermining UK democracy, such as Hong Kong's extraterritorial intimidation against UK residents. The challenge is ensuring each citizen’s vote has equal standing to protect liberty.

The Government must reject the super-embassy application that could enable Chinese authorities to spy more effectively on British residents. It should also clamp down on cyber attacks by China and Russia, give assurances to university students about expressing free views without fear of intimidation, and condemn spying on Parliament as unacceptable.

China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea represent a very real threat to the United Kingdom. Their methods vary but their intention is to weaken our security, disrupt democratic institutions, and undermine British values. China's actions present an evolving challenge in espionage, cyber-attacks, political influence operations, and exerting pressure through trade decisions.

Expressed concerns about the SNP Government's stance on national security, highlighting the severe threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Emphasised the importance of protecting democratic integrity from foreign interference.

Asked whether social media companies are doing enough to prevent their platforms from being used for undermining democracy by Russia and others. Highlighted concerns about Russian attempts to destabilise our democracy.

Expressed gratitude for the publication of the Government’s anti-corruption strategy. Emphasised the impact of the Nathan Gill scandal and supported the introduction of tough new rules on political donations, including cryptoassets in the elections Bill.

Expressed concern about Reform UK and sought to clarify her party’s position on NATO membership. Highlighted confusion over the Greens' stance regarding NATO membership.

Raised threats from China and Russia, advocating for a collaborative approach with Members across the House to address these issues.

Discussed the collapse of the recent China trial and questioned the embassy's role in foreign interference. Noted that if approved, the new embassy would replace seven different sites currently used by China.