The Labour government has been branded “weak” as it prepares to face MPs demanding answers on the alleged Chinese spy with links to Prince Andrew. Known only as H6, the alleged spy became a close confidant of the Duke of York, and reportedly also met David Cameron in Downing Street and Theresa May at a black-tie reception.

Royal insiders have urged the Duke of York to "step away" from the festivities this year, following the latest spying row.

Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is due to attend the pre-Christmas party at Buckingham Palace this Thursday but, following the Chinese spy debacle, insiders say he should do "the gentlemanly thing"