Security think tank warns of China's rising 'interference' in Britain London

A leading security think tank warned on Wednesday ofChina's growing "interference" in British politics, media, academia,business, technology and other areas.A report by the London-based Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)adds to concerns about alleged Chinese interference raised inWestern nations including the United States, Canada, Australia, NewZealand, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland."Unlike Moscow, Beijing's interference is not aimed at subverting theWest, but represents a rigorous, ruthless advancement of China'sinterests and values at the expense of those of the West, includingthrough actions which encourage self-censorship and self-limitingpolicies," RUSI said."The Chinese Communist Party sees controlling the narrative aboutChina abroad as important for reinforcing its legitimacy andjustifying its monopoly on domestic power," it said. "It is alsoimportant for advancing its geopolitical aims."The report urged London to be more assertive in building arelationship with Beijing based on "genuine reciprocity."Its main author, Charles Parton, a China expert and former Britishdiplomat, said he aimed to "stimulate debate ... about whether whatChina is doing is unacceptable." Parton highlighted examples of China interfering in Britain'spolitical processes; pressuring academics "to avoid certain subjectsor speakers;" and "threatening British citizens or residents of theUK."In December, US and British officials said businesses and governmentagencies in the two nations and at least 10 other countries had beenthe victims of a massive data theft carried out by state-sponsoredChinese hackers.Beijing has rejected the allegations. It accuses critical Westernpoliticians and media of adopting a "Cold War mentality."