LONDON: An alleged Chinese spy, Yang Tengbo—also known as Chris Yang—who developed a close working relationship with Prince Andrew, has been publicly identified after a British court ruling, reigniting concerns over Chinese infiltration in UK institutions.
Who is Yang Tengbo?
Yang, previously granted anonymity, was identified after a judge’s decision on Monday. His association with Prince Andrew began through Pitch@Palace China, an extension of Andrew’s entrepreneurial initiative that Yang co-founded in 2014. Court hearings revealed Yang had developed an “unusual degree of trust” with the Duke of York, even acting on his behalf during business meetings with Chinese investors. Yang’s involvement included an invitation to Andrew’s 60th birthday celebration in 2020, with multiple images and videos confirming their ties.
Prince Andrew ‘s Office
While denying any wrongdoing, Yang dismissed accusations as “entirely untrue,” reiterating in a statement that he had never engaged in unlawful activities. Prince Andrew’s office acknowledged their relationship ended following government advice but emphasized no sensitive discussions took place during their interactions.
The case has fueled renewed scrutiny over Beijing’s attempts to influence UK politics and its institutions. The UK’s 2023 Intelligence and Security Committee report highlighted concerns surrounding China’s United Front Work Department (UFWD), an arm of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) tasked with promoting pro-Beijing narratives internationally. The report described the UFWD’s goals as ensuring “foreign politicians and key figures align with China’s interests or avoid countering its stance.”
Adding to the concerns, MI5 has previously issued warnings of Chinese interference. Christine Lee, connected to the CCP, was named in 2022 for alleged efforts to influence UK political processes. Similarly, two individuals are currently awaiting trial on Official Secrets Act charges related to China.
Responding to the latest revelations, Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith raised concerns in Parliament, calling Yang’s case “the tip of the iceberg” and urging immediate government action. “Many more individuals are involved in similar forms of espionage,” Smith warned, emphasizing the scale of Beijing’s activities within the UK.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer
Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed growing worries, maintaining a balanced strategy towards China. “Our approach is one of engagement, cooperation on climate change, but also challenge where necessary, particularly on human rights and national security,” he said. Starmer’s stance has drawn criticism, particularly amid delays in the implementation of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), a program designed to combat foreign influence. Originally scheduled for this year, FIRS is now postponed until mid-2025.
Amid increasing scrutiny, Labour MPs expressed frustration, calling the response “shock, but not surprise.” They stressed the need for firm geopolitical policies and decisive strategies to counter Beijing’s influence. The Yang case underscores growing anxieties about foreign espionage and the delicate balancing act of the UK-China relationship.