A British embassy worker has been arrested in Germany on spying charges.

The British national, named as David S, was arrested in Potsdam after he allegedly worked “for a foreign secret service”, the German public prosecutor said in a statement.

The statement continued: “Until his arrest, David S worked as a local employee at the British Embassy in Berlin.

“On at least one occasion he forwarded documents obtained in the course of his professional activities to a representative of a Russian intelligence service.

“In return for providing information, the accused received cash in a previously unknown amount.”

The arrest is the result of joint investigations by German and British authorities.

Investigators have searched his home and office, the statement said.

A statement from the Metropolitan Police said the 57-year-old had been arrested on suspicion of committing offences relating to being engaged in ‘Intelligence Agent activity’ (under German law).

David S is due to appear before a judge later today who will “decide on the execution of the pre-trial detention”, according to the statement.

A British Home Office spokesperson said: “An individual who was contracted to work for the government was arrested yesterday by the German authorities.

“It would not be appropriate to comment further as there is an ongoing police investigation.”