EXCL MPs’ staff heading to Russia World Cup put on high alert over Kremlin spies
1 min read
MPs' staff heading to the World Cup in Russia have been warned they could be targeted by Kremlin spies, PoliticsHome has learned.
In a special briefing by Commons officials, parliamentary staff were told to be on high alert and ordered to leave work mobile phones and laptops at home.
They were also warned that any devices they did take could be subject to Kremlin interference and advised that their hotel rooms would likely be searched by Russian intelligence agents.
An invite to the briefing from Parliament’s Digital Services team says: “You may think you’re just another fan, but you are at increased risk because of your connection with Parliament…
“Be aware that parliamentary computers and phones must not be taken to Russia, and parliamentary email does not work there.
“Be on the ball.”
A Parliamentary spokesperson said: “As part of Parliament’s security response, we advise people working here of risks and how to manage them sensibly.
“We do not comment on specific details of our security policies."
The warning comes amid heightened tensions between London and Moscow over the poisoning of former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia earlier this year.
Britain responded to the attack by expelling scores of Russian diplomats with support from Western allies, although Moscow has consistently denied any involvement.
UK ministers and members of the royal family are also boycotting this summer's tournament over the feud.
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