British Man Caught Trying to Spy for Russia in National Security Act First
A 65-year-old British man has been nailed as one of the first to be convicted under the brand-new National Security Act 2023. Howard Phillips, from Essex, was found guilty after attempting to support the Russian Intelligence Service.
Spy Sting in Central London
Phillips was arrested on 16 May 2024 in central London. He thought he was meeting Russian agents—but it was all an undercover police operation. The trial, held at Winchester Crown Court, was led by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command. After a two-week battle in court, the jury found him guilty.
Revealed: The Spy Plot
Investigators uncovered chilling details of Phillips’ bid to aid Moscow:
- He offered personal info about a former UK Cabinet Minister, the Secretary of State for Defence at the time.
- He promised logistical support and insider knowledge on government operations.
- He hatched a plan to dodge suspicion, planning to use encrypted USB devices to operate under the radar.
Phoenix strapped on a long game too—telling undercover officers he had applied for a UK Border Force position and was after Home Office security clearance, aiming to embed himself as a lasting asset.
Police and CPS Hit Back
Phillips was charged under Section 3 of the National Security Act on 23 May 2024. The court heard damning evidence from covert operations and digital forensics. On 22 July 2025, the jury slammed him with a guilty verdict. Sentencing will happen later.
Met’s Counter Terror Chief Issues Warning
Detective Chief Superintendent Helen Flanagan, Head of Operations at the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “Phillips was unemployed and driven by money. This conviction should serve as a warning to those tempted by illegal activities on behalf of foreign states.We take such threats extremely seriously, and offenders will be brought to justice.”
She added: “This is another successful use of the new National Security Act to hold individuals accountable for attempting to undermine the UK’s security. We will continue to use these powers to protect the public.”
The National Security Act 2023: Britain’s New Spy Weapon
Bringing fresh muscle to tackle hostile state activity, espionage, and foreign interference, the National Security Act 2023 has already racked up multiple high-profile convictions. Phillips’ case is a clear message—trying to undermine UK security won’t be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law.
