The Welsh First Minister has said national security is a priority after two men were arrested in Wales on suspicion of spying for China.
Baroness Eluned Morgan said it would not be appropriate comment further on the “serious allegations” while investigations continue.
Last week, David Taylor, the husband of East Kilbride and Strathaven MP Joani Reid, was arrested in London, while a 68-year-old man was arrested at an address in Powys , and a 43-year-old man was arrested in Pontyclun by counter-terrorism officers.
The man arrested in Powys has been named by the BBC as former Welsh Government special adviser Steven Jones, and the Pontyclun man as former Labour press officer Matthew Aplin/
The men have been released on bail until May, the Metropolitan Police said.
Speaking at First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday (March 10), Darren Millar, leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, asked whether there would be a review of vetting and security arrangements within the devolved Government.
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He said: “First Minister, many of us were shocked last week to learn that three men had been arrested on suspicion of assisting Chinese intelligence services.
“Given the seriousness of this situation and the fact that three people, not just one, have been arrested, can you tell us: when did you become aware of the national security concerns?
“And can you also tell us whether you’ve initiated an urgent review of the vetting and security arrangements for staff employed by your Government and party?”
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Lady Morgan said: “This is a live investigation and therefore it would be inappropriate for me to comment on any detail affecting this issue.
“This is a serious issue, there are serious allegations that are being laid down, and therefore I want to respect that legal process, and I will not be commenting on the details of any of this case.”
“National security will always be our priority,” she added.
“Anything the police need from us in the Welsh Government, they will get.
“We’ll always support the work of the police and security services to keep people safe.”
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