Man accused of 'disclosing top secret UK defence information', court hears

An unemployed man has been in court today accused of causing "incalculable harm" by disclosing sensitive information about the UK's security network.

Simon Finch, 49, is accused of one count of breaching the Official Secrets Act and one breach of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act.

Finch, whose address can only be given as Swansea due to a reporting resctriction, is accused of disclosing the information after a "grievance" with police.

Westminster Magistrates' Court was told Finch is alleged to have unlawfully disclosed highly sensitive information relating to UK defence without lawful authority to do so.

He did not enter pleas during the hearing on Wednesday.

Finch allegedly disclosed the information as he held a grievance against Merseyside Police and the "harm caused by disclosure is incalculable", the court was told.

Electronic devices from Finch's home address were seized by police as part of the investigation.

Finch refused to provide the access codes for three of the devices despite an order from a judge to do so, the court heard.

He was released on bail until a plea hearing at the Old Bailey on 6 November.