LONDON - The United Kingdom (UK) has “welcomed Russian money” and asked “few questions” about the “provenance of this considerable wealth”, according to a newly published report about Russian influence in Britain.

The long-awaited review by the Commons Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) found that successive UK governments have allowed foreign citizens into the country to launder the profits of illicit activities while gaining power and influence within politics, media and wider society.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to give the Security Service (MI5) more powers to combat foreign interference, after the government was accused of “taking its eye off the ball” over Russia.

The allegation was made by the Commons Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) in a long-awaited report that says Downing Street “directly avoided” an investigation into allegations that agents of President Putin meddled in the Brexit vote.