Britain’s domestic intelligence agency MI5 has warned members of parliament and staff that Chinese intelligence officers have been posing as professional headhunters to build relationships with individuals who may have access to sensitive government information.
Security minister Dan Jarvis told Parliament that two online profiles identified by MI5 were believed to be working on behalf of Chinese intelligence.
The alert follows the recent collapse of a case against two men accused of spying for Beijing. Jarvis announced new steps to counter foreign interference, including tighter scrutiny of political funding and briefings for political parties.
He also warned that British universities face growing attempts by China to influence research and activities.
The announcement comes as the government weighs Beijing’s request to build a large new embassy in London, deepening political debate over security and influence.
