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Spy charges against two men accused of working for China have collapsed in the UK. The Director of Public Prosecutions stated the case fell apart because the government would not officially label China a national security threat. This declaration, required by a precedent from another espionage case, was deemed necessary to prosecute under the Official Secrets Act. Prosecutors sought evidence from the government for months, but it was not forthcoming, leading to the charges being dropped. The decision has drawn criticism and highlighted a potential disconnect between government rhetoric and legal prosecution requirements.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.