China and the UK: After the golden era

The UK’s relationship with China has undergone a dramatic transformation, shifting from a "Golden Era" of economic partnership to a state of heightened national security concern. Investigative research reveals persistent efforts by the Chinese Communist Party to exert influence through the United Front Work Department, targeting British political elites, universities, and commercial sectors. Notable instances include the conviction of individuals involved in shadow policing operations against dissidents and the attempted acquisition of sensitive dual-use technology from companies like Imagination Technologies. These developments underscore the risks associated with past commercial collaborations, where the promise of economic gain often masked strategic efforts to extract intellectual property. As Britain recalibrates its stance, the challenge lies in balancing necessary engagement with the urgent need to protect national infrastructure and democratic values from covert state-led interference.