Despite MI5's security warnings, over 20 British universities have formed partnerships with a Chinese university associated with military research. Defence experts criticize continued collaborations, with seven universities reportedly signing agreements that may aid Chinese military efforts. MI5's director-general previously cautioned about risks related to sensitive academic research being exploited to boost foreign military capabilities. The intelligence and security committee has called for better oversight of university collaborations, citing concerns about intellectual property theft and urging immediate state intervention in monitoring arrangements with Chinese institutions.
MI5 director-general Sir Ken McCallum warned vice-chancellors last April that hostile states could exploit sensitive academic research to undermine Britain's national security.
Lord Beamish stated that academia was an easy option for China in terms of the theft of intellectual property, urging for a public register of university donations from China.
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