The expulsions are in response to the poisoning of a former spy

The UK believes the nerve agent used on Sergei Skripal and his daughter came from Russia and has demanded a response.

Comments from May:

Russia's response has shown complete disdain, offered no explanation

Russians have shown sarcasm, contempt and defiance

Represents and unlawful use of force against the UK

This is immediate action to dismantle espionage network

This is the single biggest expulsion in 30 years

Will harden defenses against hostile state activity in UK

Will also table an amendment to strengthen actions against the abuse of human rights

There is no place for corrupt elites in the UK

Says will freeze Russian state assets wherever they have evidence of a threat

Cannot share some measures which UK will take publicly

Spoke to Trump, Merkel and Macron in the last 24 hours, will coordinate efforts

The talk about dirty money in the UK rings a bit hollow. There is a lot of real estate in London owned by Russians. The UK has been happy to let it drive up the price of London real estate for a decade.

Another point: There was a lot of talk about booting out RT or Sputnik but May didn't.