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Chinese spy linked to UK’s scandal-hit Prince Andrew

16 December 20244 views0

A Chinese businessman with ties to British royalty has firmly denied allegations of espionage after being implicated by UK authorities. Yang Tengbo, previously unnamed in legal proceedings, voluntarily revealed his identity to address accusations linking him to covert activities on behalf of the Chinese government.

According to a recent decision by the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC), Yang was characterized as having a close relationship with Prince Andrew, younger brother of King Charles. The commission referenced concerns raised by the UK Home Office, which claimed Yang might have engaged in secretive operations linked to the Chinese Communist Party’s United Front Work Department (UFWD).

Yang, 50, responded through a statement issued by his legal representative, asserting his innocence. “I categorically deny any involvement in unlawful activities. The claims against me are unfounded, and labeling me a ‘spy’ is completely baseless,” he declared.

The situation escalated in February 2023 when Yang was intercepted while boarding a flight from Beijing to London. He was informed the following month of a pending ban from the UK on national security grounds. In July 2023, the Home Office formally cited concerns about his potential threat to British security.

Yang contested the decision before SIAC, but the commission dismissed his appeal last Thursday, making public details of the case for the first time. During the legal proceedings, Yang’s lawyer, Guy Vassall-Adams, announced his client’s choice to waive anonymity to clarify his position.

The court documents revealed that communications found on Yang’s phone suggested he had been authorized by Prince Andrew to facilitate a financial initiative aimed at fostering partnerships with Chinese investors. The specifics of the venture remain undisclosed.

Responding to the developments, Prince Andrew issued a statement asserting that he had severed all ties with Yang as soon as concerns about his activities were brought to light.

China’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the accusations as unfounded speculation, emphasizing the country’s adherence to transparent international relations. An official statement from the Chinese embassy in London urged the UK to cease what it called politically motivated actions designed to disrupt bilateral relations.

Far right tabloids somehow found a way to blame Kier Starmer and the Labour party – while centre and left-wing papers were more focused on the links to Prince Andrew and the ongoing scandals that seem to follow him around… It’s also interesting to see which papers ran headlines referring to Yang as a “spy”, using fear quotes, or simply, an alleged spy.

Unless otherwise linked, headlines are front pages for 17/12/2024