UK research funded by China front company being sent to Beijing's spies, MI5 warns
MI5 has issued a rare public warning that over 100 UK academics have unwittingly assisted Chinese espionage through a front company called the China General Technology Research Institute. The agency claims the organization funds research into sensitive technologies like AI and cyber-security to bolster Chinese intelligence capabilities.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing tension between academic collaboration and national security, specifically regarding the transfer of dual-use technology to foreign intelligence services.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, A group which has funded research in the UK has been supporting Beijing's spying apparatus, MI5 has announced
Home and Legal Correspondent Published 11 minutes ago More than 100 academics linked to British institutions have unwittingly assisted China's espionage operations against the UK via a front company working for its intelligence and security services, MI5 has warned.
In the highly unusual public alert, the UK's internal security service warned universities and academics that continuing ties with China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI) could ultimately lead to criminal charges for aiding a foreign state.
Security minister Dan Jarvis said MI5's warning exposed attempts by Chinese intelligence agencies to use British academic research to undermine UK national security.
He said he had now written to all university vice-chancellors to end relationships with the organisation.
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