Brexit has not impacted UK's intelligence sharing, says parliamentary watchdog

Intelligence and Security Committee report reveals no negative impact

The UK's decision to leave the European Union has not had a negative impact on how the country shares secret spy information with other nations, according to a report by the parliamentary watchdog. The report stated that spy chiefs from MI5 and other agencies reassured the committee that intelligence cooperation remains unchanged since the Brexit vote. This comes as a surprise, as concerns were initially raised that Brexit could lead to reduced cooperation and weakened security ties with European countries.

Experts warned of potential consequences

Before the 2016 referendum, high-profile figures, including former US President Barack Obama, issued warnings that intelligence-sharing and counterterrorism efforts would be compromised if the UK left the EU. However, the Intelligence and Security Committee's report disputes these claims, stating that Brexit has not had a negative impact on intelligence cooperation between the UK and EU member states.

Intelligence activities outside of EU structures

The report highlights that the lack of impact is largely due to the fact that intelligence activities with European counterparts have always taken place outside EU structures. The committee also noted that disagreements on other matters have not affected national security. Overall, the report reassures that Brexit has not hindered intelligence cooperation between the UK and EU member states.