MI5 warns UK academics to cut ties with Chinese group over alleged spying

Britain's domestic intelligence agency, MI5, has issued a public alert warning UK academics to cease collaborations with the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI). MI5 alleges the CGTRI has strong ties to China's Ministry of State Security (MSS) and that its primary purpose is to fund academic research to enhance Beijing's espionage capabilities. The CGTRI has reportedly targeted over 100 UK academics in fields like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. MI5 stated that continuing to accept grants or work with the CGTRI could lead to prosecution under the UK's National Security Act. UK Security Minister Dan Jarvis has written to university leaders to ensure staff end these relationships, emphasizing the threat to national security.

MI5 has issued a security alert to UK universities, warning researchers and academics to cease collaboration with the China Academy of General Technology (CAGT), which it describes as a "significant threat" and a front for China's Ministry of State Security (MSS). The CAGT is accused of paying UK academics in sensitive fields like AI and cybersecurity for research that enhances China's espionage capabilities. This alert, issued on Wednesday, highlights ongoing concerns about Beijing's influence and risks impacting UK-China academic cooperation, which has been substantial due to funding and Chinese student numbers. The warning reminds institutions of the National Security Act, making it an offense to assist foreign intelligence agencies. Experts suggest a need for clearer government guidance on which research areas pose national security risks.

MI5 has issued a public espionage warning to UK universities, identifying the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI) as a front company for China's Ministry of State Security (MSS). MI5 believes CGTRI has been providing grants to over 100 academics across the UK to steal crucial research in areas like AI and cybersecurity, directly benefiting China's intelligence capabilities. Academics are strongly advised to cease all collaboration with CGTRI and to verify the ultimate funding source of any research partnerships with Chinese institutions to avoid potential prosecution under the National Security Act 2023. The security minister has urged universities to end ties with CGTRI to protect national security and allies.