UK universities have been put on high alert by MI5 over a Chinese state-linked organization accused of espionage, raising fresh concerns about foreign influence in British research. The security service has flagged the China Academy of General Technology as a major threat, urging academics to halt collaborations amid growing tensions over national security. The warning comes as the UK-China relationship undergoes a period of renewed engagement, complicating efforts to balance cooperation with safeguarding sensitive work. With intelligence agencies intensifying scrutiny, the alert underscores deepening apprehensions over Beijing’s activities in British institutions.
Institutions have for years turned to China for funding opportunities but national security concerns are mountingMI5 issues spy alert to UK universities over Chinese front company stealing researchThe security alert issued by MI5 regarding a Chinese state-owned conglomerate accused of conducting espionage in the UK reveals the extent to which British intelligence remains concerned about Beijing’s influence, and risks casting a shadow over UK-China cooperation at a time when the bilateral relationship is enjoying a revival.The UK’s domestic security service on Wednesday warned researchers and academics to cease work with the China Academy of General Technology (CAGT), an organisation MI5 described as a “significant threat”. Continue reading...
