Briton accused of spying for Russia set for trial next year
A 64-year-old British man who allegedly, tried to disclose an MP’s personal details to help Russia’s foreign intelligence service is set to stand trial in February next year.
Howard Michael Phillips, who lives in Harlow, Essex, is accused of applying for a job at the UK Border Force while allegedly acting for Russia.
It is said he set up a mobile phone to use to pass on information, he allegedly sought “security clearance”, and is accused of offering “logistical support”.
In a charge brought under the 2023 National Security Act, Phillips is accused of “acquiring and disclosing personal contact details of an MP, intending that conduct to materially assist a foreign intelligence service in carrying out UK-related activities”.
Phillips, wearing a grey tracksuit, appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday via a videolink from HMP Wormwood Scrubs.
Mr Justice Jeremy Baker remanded him back into custody until a plea hearing on October 25.
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And he told the defendant: “If a trial is necessary in this case, then that will take place at Winchester crown court, before a judge to be allocated, and that will take place on February 10 next year.”
The Metropolitan Police said Phillips was arrested in central London on Thursday, May 16.
A force spokesman said: “As part of the investigation, which is being led by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, officers also searched an address in the Hertfordshire area and an address in the Essex area. Both searches are now complete.
“The arrest is not connected to any other recent charges or investigations linked to NSA offences and there is not believed to be any threat to the wider public in connection with this matter.”
According to the charge, Phillips is accused of “engaging in conduct, namely applying for employment at the Border Force, security clearance, offering logistical support, setting up a mobile phone so that it was available to be used by a foreign intelligence service, acquiring and disclosing personal contact details of an MP, intending that conduct to materially assist a foreign intelligence service in carrying out UK-related activities.”
Phillips has not yet entered a plea.
