The billionaire behind a Brexit think tank may face possible scrutiny by Britain’s intelligence watchdog as it emerged he was once placed under investigation in Monaco over his links to Russia.

Christopher Chandler, who provides substantial financial support to the Legatum Institute, could be examined by the intelligence and security committee (ISC) amid “disquiet” among MPs over the activities of the think tank, which has close links to pro-Brexit MPs.

Chandler’s spokesman said this weekend that the Monaco investigation was conducted by Robert Eringer, a “discredited” intelligence adviser, acting on mistaken information.

Dominic Grieve MP, new chairman of the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC), which scrutinises the work of the intelligence agencies, told The Sunday Times that the committee would “scope” concerns raised in parliament