A hidden camera has been discovered in a ceiling panel of a Government building in London, prompting an investigation by security services. The electronic device was found during routine checks in a communal area of the site on Marsham Street, which houses the Home Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
Discovery and Response
According to reports, the device was concealed behind a ceiling panel at the Westminster building. Home Office Minister Lord Hanson confirmed the discovery to the House of Lords on June 10, stating that the device was not located near any ministerial offices and that there was no evidence of foreign interference. He assured peers that the appropriate agencies are investigating the matter.
Political Reactions
Conservative shadow Home Office minister Lord Davies of Gower expressed concerns, suggesting it was "highly likely" that China was behind the device due to the recent approval of the new Chinese embassy in London. However, Lord Hanson dismissed such claims, emphasizing that inquiries have not found evidence linking the device to any foreign state.
Shadow minister Alex Burghart called the incident "serious" and demanded an urgent investigation. He questioned who was responsible, how long the device had been in place, and whether sensitive information had been compromised.
Official Statements
An MHCLG spokesperson declined to comment on security matters, stating, "We do not comment on security matters." The Government also investigated previous reports of tracking devices in prime ministers' cars but found no evidence to support such claims.
The discovery has raised concerns about the security of government departments and potential espionage attempts. The investigation is ongoing.
