Theresa May to use UK’s world-class terrorism intelligence as a bargaining tool in Brexit talks
Theresa May sets out strong messsage to European capitals who heavily rely on UK counter-terrorism spy networks
THERESA May will put Britain’s world beating counter-terrorism expertise on the table during Brexit negotiations, Downing Street has confirmed.
In a little noticed line in her Tory conference speech on Sunday, the PM included GCHQ, MI5 and MI6’s world beating intelligence as part of the UK's potential exit deal.
The fleeting reference was intended to be a strong message to Europe’s capitals - many of whom rely heavily on our spy networks to warn them of impending terror attacks.
The controversial addition will spark fury among them, as could easily be read as a veiled threat that tip offs may be withdrawn unless Brussels continues to stump up free trade.
But No10 sources insisted there is nothing wrong with Mrs May playing “hardball”.
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The source added: “The deal the PM wants will be all encompassing, so that means everything we do with the EU should be on the table – what they need, and what we need.
“Why shouldn’t we include intelligence in that, explicitly or implicitly? It is one of our strongest suits.”
On Sunday, Mrs May told the Tory faithful: “I want that deal to reflect the kind of mature, cooperative relationship that close friends and allies enjoy.
“I want it to include cooperation on law enforcement and counter-terrorism work.”
Former pro-Remain campaigners last night attacked the PM for making the link.
Chuka Umunna MP, supporter of the Open Britain campaign, said: “It would be completely counter-productive for either side to approach these negotiations wanting anything other than a continuation of the close co-operation on security matters we currently enjoy.
“Given Britain’s expertise in this area, both sides should be seeking an unprecedentedly close working relationship with the EU on security for a non-member state.”