The news of the recent arrest of a parliamentary researcher suspected of spying for China has sparked widespread interest in Beijing’s espionage activities. Despite the lack of charges and the individual’s claims of innocence, there are valid concerns surrounding Chinese intelligence efforts and Britain’s response.
China’s growing power, aggression towards the West, and increasing repression domestically all contribute to these concerns. Their approach to intelligence gathering extends beyond traditional means, encompassing economic and technological advantage. According to this year’s intelligence and security committee report on China, China adopts a “whole-of-state” approach that co-opts businesses, academic institutions, and ordinary citizens, whether willingly or not.
Furthermore, governments are alarmed by Beijing’s covert operations. Canada, for instance, has initiated a public inquiry into alleged election interference by China and Russia. Similar to Moscow, China has expanded beyond promoting its own agenda through social media, now utilizing disinformation to sow distrust within the United States. Chinese state-backed posts falsely claimed that US weather weapons were responsible for wildfires in Hawaii.
Such developments necessitate heightened vigilance. The UK’s increased funding for Mandarin language skills and closer scrutiny of Chinese investments are positive steps. However, distinguishing between genuine expressions of shared views and influence operations is challenging. To maintain vigilance, it is crucial to foster understanding through contact with China and informed discussions about its policies, practices, and intentions.
Chinese-born individuals and those of Chinese descent are particularly vulnerable to espionage. Fear of repercussions for themselves or their loved ones back in China may discourage their engagement in politics. Excessive suspicion also has its pitfalls. In the US, the now-discontinued China Initiative by the Department of Justice raised concerns about innocent Chinese-American scholars being targeted by overly zealous investigators. These approaches not only undermine justice but also hinder scientific and technological progress and the understanding of China.
To address these issues, there is a pressing need for transparency and clarity. For instance, senior ministers and civil servants should have access to the Foreign Office’s China strategy rather than it being classified. Companies and institutions would benefit from clear guidelines on when collaboration with Chinese individuals or businesses can be problematic or advantageous. Cutting off all contacts without proper consideration would be a mistake. Engaging with Chinese institutions and individuals is crucial for comprehending China’s objectives, operating methods, and identifying areas of shared interest.
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