M15 is sending out a warning for Christine Lee for involving in political interference. But, who is she? A spy, champion for the Chinese in the US, or an influence peddler?
Who is Christine Lee?
Christine Ching Kui Lee is the founder of Christine Lee & Co, a law firm with several offices in Birmingham and London. According to the website, the firm is also a “Legal Advisor to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the UK and Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Belfast”.
M15, the British spy agency sent out a warning, along with an image of a woman named Christian Lee. According to the agency, Christine Lee was “involved in political interference activities” in the UK, on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). M15 is also claiming that she “has facilitated financial donations to serving and aspiring parliamentarians on behalf of foreign nationals based in Hong Kong and China”. The alert also claims that lee stated her involvement was for representing Chinese in the UK and helping in increasing diversity.
What are the allegations and punishment?
M15 states it was possible due to covert coordination with the CCP’s United Front Work Department (UFWD). They are also alleging the influx of funds from foreign nationals based in Hong Kong and China. The UK authorities are claiming that the UFWD is attempting to develop relationships with ‘influential figures’ so that the UKfavours CCP and covers concerns about the party. They claim Lee held an extensive engagement with people involved in UK’s politics and
The spy agency’s reports claim that Barry Gardiner, a former Labor candidate got £200,000 from Lee. He declared, stating “it was made fully aware by me, of her engagement with my office and the donations she made to fund researchers in my office in the past”. However, Lee was not involved in selecting or managing the researchers and stopped funding from June 2020.
More about Lee’s influence
Lee has connections with the British Chinese project. In a personal letter, former Prime Minister, Theresa May explained more. () “You should feel very proud of the difference that ‘The British Chinese Project’ is making. In promoting engagement, understanding, and cooperation between the Chinese and British communities in the UK. I also wish you well with your work to further the inclusion. And, participation of British-Chinese people in the UK political system,” wrote May. Lee was also interacting with former PM David Cameron in an event in 2015. However, as of now, Lee’s conduct does not require criminal prosecution. But, the lawmakers are warning of a potential influence by the Chinese.
