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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Ben Mitchell

James Bond fantasist jailed after sharing Grant Shapps’ details with fake Russian spies

An Essex man, described as having "dreamt about being like James Bond", has been jailed for seven years for attempting to spy for what he believed were Russian intelligence services.

Howard Phillips, 66, from Harlow, intended to aid two apparent Russian agents, "Sasha" and "Dima". His proposed assistance included passing on personal information about former defence secretary Sir Grant Shapps, arranging travel, and booking hotels.

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