Conservative MPs Urge National Security Review of Daily Telegraph Sale by UAE Investment Fund, United Arab Emirates

A host of Conservative MPs have raised concerns over the potential sale of the Daily Telegraph, stating that it presents a significant national security threat. In a letter to the deputy prime minister, ministers are being urged to review the sale using national security powers. The investment fund RedBird IMI, owned by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, vice-president of the UAE, has reached an agreement to purchase the newspaper and The Spectator magazine. The MPs expressed concerns about the influence of a foreign government strengthening its ties with Beijing, as well as the potential impact on press freedom and national security. Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer has stated that she is considering opening an investigation into the deal. The MPs have called for a thorough review of the proposed transaction to assess its implications on national security and press freedom. Lloyds Banking Group and the Barclay family, the previous owners, have set a deadline for completing the deal, but the MPs argue that the government should take the time to fully examine all aspects of the transaction before giving approval. Other MPs joining in signing the letter include the Foreign Affairs Select Committee chairwoman, Alicia Kearns, and former Tory Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith. The Cabinet Office and RedBird IMI have been contacted for comment.