Former treasurer Joe Hockey demands the identification of an ex-politician accused of betraying Australia to foreign spies, calling them a 'traitor'.

Asio director-general Mike Burgess disclosed a spy network's existence and the ex-politician's involvement but withheld names and specific countries.

Hockey criticizes the secrecy and expresses personal concern, questioning if the individual was a Liberal Party colleague.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Labor minister Anika Wells respect Asio's decision, underscoring the importance of combating foreign interference.

Defence Minister Richard Marles emphasizes the need for vigilance among public servants against espionage threats.

Hockey contends that the accused should be named publicly, despite the lack of charges or convictions due to the incident predating current foreign interference laws.