MI5 warns 100-plus academics over China espionage research

MI5 has warned UK universities that more than 100 UK-linked academics contributed to research projects funded by the China General Technology Research Institute, which the agency says has strong ties to China’s Ministry of State Security and is intended to advance its espionage capabilities. The work included artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, covert communications and steganography; MI5 said some researchers may have been unaware of the institute’s links and did not accuse every participant of knowingly assisting Chinese intelligence. The agency urged universities to review existing and planned collaborations, trace research funding and ensure the MSS does not benefit from UK research, warning that some conduct could carry consequences under the National Security Act 2023. China’s embassy rejected the allegations as baseless and said they undermine educational and research cooperation.