UK Warned of Chinese Espionage Attempts, Beijing Denies Claims

TL/DR –

Britain’s domestic intelligence agency, MI5, has warned of espionage attempts by China, with spies reportedly posing as headhunters to recruit UK lawmakers and influence universities. Security Minister Dan Jarvis said that China was targeting democratic institutions and attempting to gain access to sensitive information about the UK government. The warning comes ahead of a decision on whether to approve a new Chinese embassy in London, which some critics believe would pose a security risk.

UK’s MI5 Warns of Chinese Espionage Attempts Using Fake Headhunters

Beijing refutes accusations weeks before the decision on a new Chinese embassy in London is due.

MI5, the UK’s domestic intelligence agency, is alerting lawmakers and universities about alleged Chinese espionage efforts involving spies masquerading as headhunters. The agency disclosed this week that China was using such tactics to gain access to sensitive parliamentary information.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis informed the House of Commons on Tuesday about a recent MI5 espionage warning involving alleged Chinese attempts to exploit LinkedIn for large-scale outreach on behalf of the Chinese government.

In October, MI5 reported that Chinese spies were generating false job adverts to solicit British professionals, resulting in thousands of suspect postings on online recruitment platforms.

China immediately dismissed these claims, urging the UK to halt its “self-aggrandisement”. A Chinese embassy spokesperson in London expressed stern objections to the UK government’s allegations.

Jarvis also highlighted the Chinese targeting of UK universities, potentially impacting independent research and campus activities. A closed meeting with university heads will underline the risks of foreign interference.

These warnings follow a case drop by British prosecutors in September. Two UK men were charged with spying for China, but the case was abandoned due to insufficient evidence linking Beijing to national security threats.

This controversy emerges weeks ahead of the government’s decision on greenlighting a large new Chinese embassy in London, a project facing security risk objections.

Last year, a Chinese businessman linked to Prince Andrew was banned from the UK due to alleged espionage risks. The individual had developed close ties with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and had met previous UK leaders.

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