A man who plotted to attack a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna has been sentenced to 15 years in prison. The case has shone a light on the crucial behind-the-scenes role played by British counter-terror agencies in foiling the plot. Sources in Whitehall confirm that MI5 and GCHQ provided key intelligence that enabled Austrian authorities to make the arrest before the attack could materialise.
The plotters target was the Ernst Happel Stadium, where Swift was due to perform in front of 65,000 fans. The foiled plan involved explosives and vehicles. The sentencing, handed down in a Vienna court, is being seen in London as a vindication of the UKs intelligence-sharing network.
One Whitehall insider said: This was a textbook operation. Our people worked round the clock with the Austrians. It proves the value of the post-Brexit security arrangements.
But there is an edge to the praise. Some in the security establishment worry that the spotlight on Britains role could have a chilling effect. If the plotters networks know their communications were intercepted, they will adapt.
This is the game. You win a battle, but the war continues. The case also raises questions about domestic security.
Labour MPs have already tabled questions about the resources available to British counter-terror police. The Home Secretary is expected to make a statement to the Commons later this week. For now, though, the mood in the Lobby is one of quiet pride.
The Vienna plot could have been a massacre. It wasnt. And British intelligence played its part.
