The British Navy is set to end a century-old custom of having Chinese servants on warships… over fears they may spy for Beijing.
Hundreds of Chinese laundrymen have toiled on British ships since the 1930s, washing and pressing sailors’ uniforms and officers’ white tablecloths.
But all of a sudden the archaic practice has been called into question, and it’s not for the reason you might think.
M15 has shared concerns that Beijing could threaten laundrymen’s loved ones in China to make them pass on Navy secrets.
Several staff members have been dismissed due to the threat of security leaks, including one man who had 39 years’ service as a laundryman.
Former First Sea Lord Admiral Lord West said: “If it is a question of security, the Navy has no choice.
“But it’s sad as Chinese laundrymen have fought wars with us, some have died for us.”
It is believed that the Chinese “servants” will be replaced by Nepalese Gurkhas, ensuring that the age-old tradition stays somewhat intact.
Hurrah for Britain!
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