A security specialist says the global trend of being suspicious of politicians is beginning to invade New Zealand

It follows reports National MP Jian Yang taught at a Chinese spy school.

He's hit back at the claims, saying they're false and defamatory

Intelligence and security specialist Jim Veitch says given the global climate, it's no surprise New Zealanders are scrutinising our own politicians.

"With what's happening in America you've got investigations going on there about the Russian threats to the electoral process. In Australia investigations going on with members of parliament holding joint citizenship."

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