Criminal investigation into former Vlaams Belang MFP’s contacts with Chinese spy

Several weeks ago it emerged that the former Vlaams Belang lawmaker Frank Creyelman had received funds and had done work for a known Chinese spy.  For three years the Chinese relied on Mr Creyelman to provide information.  It’s understood that this was an attempt by the Chinese to influence EU policy regarding China. When this became clear the Vlaams Belang party expelled its member with immediate effect.

Belgian justice minister Paul Van Tigchelt has revealed that last December Belgium’s central anti-corruption service drew up a report.  It’s on the basis of this document that federal prosecutors are now launching an investigation.  Yesterday the justice minister told lawmakers: “This is the start of a lengthy enquiry that will establish the responsibility of the people involved.

Groen to involve public standards committee

Meanwhile, the Flemish green party Groen has raised the situation of Frank Creyelman’s brother, Steven, with the public standards committee of the chamber of representatives.  Steven Creyelman resigned as a member of the defence procurement select committee after it emerged that his name regularly appeared in the messages exchanged between his brother and the Chinese spy.

Vlaams Belang says that Steven Creyelman, who is still a federal MP, was insufficiently and not fully informed about his brother’s contacts with the Chinese spy.  The party has acknowledged that the Chinese have attempted to influence the party’s positions.