An alleged Chinese spy, identified as Yang Tengbo, has refuted accusations of any wrongdoing or unlawful activities as the British government faces mounting questions regarding security threats from China. Yang, also known as Chris Yang, is alleged to have close ties with Prince Andrew and is believed to have been working on behalf of the United Front Work Department, an arm of the Chinese Communist Party.
Who is Yang Tengbo?
Yang, 50, is a director of Hampton Group International, a business consultancy advising U.K.-based companies on operations in China. He has been seen with prominent U.K. politicians, including former Prime Ministers David Cameron and Theresa May. Yang is a key member of Pitch@Palace China, an initiative by Prince Andrew to support entrepreneurs. He arrived in the U.K. in 2002 to study and has since made it his second home.
Details Involving Prince Andrew
Information about Yang's case emerged during an immigration tribunal where it was revealed that he was banned from entering the U.K. in 2023 due to suspicions of carrying out covert activities for the Chinese Communist Party. Documents indicated a close relationship between Yang and Prince Andrew, with references to a 'covert and clandestine' element in their interactions.
Response to Allegations
Yang vehemently denied the espionage claims, attributing them to the changing political climate between Britain and China. Prince Andrew's office stated that the royal's interactions with Yang were through official channels and did not involve sensitive discussions.
UK-China Relations
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed concern over the challenges posed by China but maintained a strategy of engagement and cooperation with Beijing. Despite efforts to mend relations, critics like Iain Duncan Smith highlighted the threat posed by China, citing instances of espionage activities involving Chinese individuals attempting to influence British politicians.
In a separate incident, British intelligence officials warned of improper influence attempts by a British-Chinese lawyer and the arrest of a parliamentary researcher suspected of providing sensitive information to China.
