Sheffield Hallam University has referred allegations of sustained pressure from China aimed at silencing its human rights research to counter-terrorism police. Reports indicate that over the past two years, the Chinese government has allegedly attempted to intimidate the university concerning a professor's investigation into forced labour in the Xinjiang region.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police confirmed the referral of these allegations, stating it falls under Section 3 of the National Security Act, which relates to behaviours that could assist a foreign intelligence service.
According to released documents, university staff faced threats from individuals purportedly associated with China's National Security Service, who demanded the cessation of sensitive research undertaken by Professor Laura Murphy. The communications revealed that a decision to limit research output appeared to result in an end to the threats against staff members.
Internal records indicated that the research was effectively halted after the Chinese demands, but the university later reversed its decision following legal challenges from Professor Murphy, citing infringements on her academic freedom.
In an official statement, officials from Sheffield Hallam University explained that their initial decision was based on the complexities of the situation, including issues concerning professional indemnity insurance related to ongoing legal actions involving a defamation suit from a Chinese entity.
The university has since issued an apology to Professor Murphy and has reaffirmed its commitment to academic freedom and the importance of her research, insisting that commercial interests were not behind their decisions.
The ongoing investigations underscore the delicate relationship between academic institutions in the UK and geopolitical pressures stemming from foreign governments.
