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Foreign Interference 2025-12-11
11 December 2025
Lead MP
James MacCleary
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Democracy & ElectionsForeign Affairs
Other Contributors: 16
At a Glance
James MacCleary raised concerns about foreign interference 2025-12-11 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The debate highlights the urgent need to address foreign interference which strikes at the core of Britain's democratic institutions, economy, and national security. The post-war and post-cold war structures that have kept Britain safe are eroding, making us vulnerable to authoritarian states such as Russia and China. James MacCleary stresses the importance of maintaining alliances with European partners and the need for liberal international institutions. He cites examples from Georgia and Sudan where foreign interference has led to political instability and democratic backsliding.
Stephen Gethins
SNP
Arbroath and Broughty Ferry
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.
Calvin Bailey
Lab
Leyton and Wanstead
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.
Peter Swallow
Lab
Bracknell
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.
Chris Law
SNP
Dundee Central
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.
Chris Law
SNP
Dundee East
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.
Phil Brickell
Lab
Bolton West
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.
Ellie Chowns
Green
North Herefordshire
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.
Calum Miller
LD
Bicester and Woodstock
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.
James MacCleary
Lab
Lewes
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.
Charlie Dewhirst
Con
Bridlington and The Wolds
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.
John Cooper
Con
Dumfries and Galloway
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.
Peter Swallow
Con
Bracknell
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.
Phil Brickell
Con
Bolton West
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.
Chowns
Green
North Herefordshire
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.
Calum Miller
LD
Bicester and Woodstock
Raised threats from China and Russia, advocating for a collaborative approach with Members across the House to address these issues.
Charlie Dewhirst
SNP
Bridlington and The Wolds
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.
Government Response
Acknowledged the importance of protecting democratic values and freedom of expression from foreign interference. Emphasised measures such as the National Security Act 2023 to disrupt state threats in the UK. Announced sanctions against Russian entities involved in information warfare and efforts to improve data collection on transnational repression. Emphasised the Government’s commitment to disrupting foreign threats while ensuring those at risk can recognise and report suspicious activity. Mentioned comprehensive powers of the National Security Act 2023 and protective work of the defending democracy taskforce.
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