A former Labour adviser, arrested earlier this year on suspicion of spying for China, was reportedly a member of the party's 'Rose Network', a group that offers privileged access to senior Labour figures. David Taylor, the individual in question, was arrested by counter-terrorism police on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service.
Taylor and two other men were subsequently released on police bail, with their bail extended in May until August. According to reports, Taylor was part of the Rose Network until his Labour membership was suspended following his arrest.
The Rose Network is advertised by the Labour Party as providing members with opportunities to attend various events, including presentations, discussions, receptions, and Q&A sessions with the party's front bench. Membership levels range from £1,200 to over £10,000 annually, and the network has reportedly contributed tens of millions of pounds to the party's funds over the years.
Taylor previously served as a special adviser to Labour peer Peter Hain during his tenure as secretary of state for Wales. He later worked as a lobbyist for a company called Earthcott, which has been listed as a supporter of SME4Labour, a Labour business group. He also spent time at the Asia House think tank, focused on engagement between Asia and Europe.
Taylor is married to Joani Reid, the Labour MP for East Kilbride and Strathaven. Reid was recently readmitted to the party after a voluntary suspension following her husband's arrest. She stated that she had never been part of any police investigation as a suspect or witness and expressed gratitude for the support she received. A Labour spokesperson confirmed that Reid had been readmitted to the party and had her whip restored in the House of Commons following an independent process under party rules.
A Labour spokesperson stated that all donations to the party are registered according to Electoral Commission rules. The party also confirmed that David Taylor was immediately suspended pending investigation once the police inquiry came to their attention, and declined to comment further while the investigation is ongoing. The party emphasized its expectation of the highest standards from its elected representatives and members.