Government sets out to curb foreign interference in UK universities

The UK Governement published guidance intended for universities and students to detect and report foreign interference in the British higher education sector, which it called an “attractive target” for hostile states. It is investing £3 million in a package of measures to “tackle the issue,” including a new centralised reporting system.

The Director General of MI5 recently briefed university leaders on attempts by states such as China and Russia to interfere with university research and teaching. Specifically, foreign agents are known to approach academics and students on LinkedIn and to offer bribes.

Last month, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said of China that “a strategic and consistent relationship with them is firmly in our national interest. That does not mean turning a blind eye to the challenges they pose – but engaging even where we disagree.”