MI5 appoints senior spy to stop leaks on Brexit

MI5 spies will be used to protect the UK against leaks by ministers and civil servants that threaten to damage British interests in crucial Brexit talks with the European Union.

A new head of protective security advice for the government has been reportedly created by MI5 aimed at “closing loopholes” in Whitehall departments.

A series of leaks during the first stage of Brexit negotiations has fuelled paranoia that similar issues could derail Theresa May’s ability to secure a final deal. A former British diplomat told a Sunday newspapers that British spies would be warning ministers about “hostile” intelligence agencies as crucial trade talks resume this week.

There are growing fears EU states will use covert intelligence in an attempt o seek an advantage in talks.

Mrs May has said she wants a wide-ranging free trade deal with the EU and a more outward-looking trade policy.

Crunch Cabinet meetings are expected to take place today and tomorrow.