An investigation into allegations that Sheffield Hallam University faced sustained pressure from China to shut down human rights research has been referred to counter-terrorism police. The BBC and the Guardian have reported that documents show China waged a two-year campaign of intimidation, including demands that the university refrain from sensitive research regarding claims of forced labour in the Xinjiang region.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police confirmed that the investigation was referred due to the allegations falling under Section 3 of the National Security Act, which involves assisting a foreign intelligence service.
Internal documents acquired by Professor Laura Murphy, whose research was allegedly targeted, highlighted threats to university staff from individuals associated with China's National Security Service. These threats reportedly ceased after the university decided not to publish a final phase of Murphy's research on forced labour in China.
The university later informed Murphy that she could not continue her research, prompting legal action for infringement of her academic freedom. Following these developments, Sheffield Hallam University issued an apology to Murphy and reversed its decision, granting her the green light to proceed.
University officials stated that their initial decision not to support Murphy’s research stemmed from various complex factors, including the suspension of insurance due to a defamation suit filed by a Chinese firm. They further clarified that the decision was not influenced by commercial interests in China, emphasizing their commitment to academic freedom and the importance of Murphy's work.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police confirmed that the investigation was referred due to the allegations falling under Section 3 of the National Security Act, which involves assisting a foreign intelligence service.
Internal documents acquired by Professor Laura Murphy, whose research was allegedly targeted, highlighted threats to university staff from individuals associated with China's National Security Service. These threats reportedly ceased after the university decided not to publish a final phase of Murphy's research on forced labour in China.
The university later informed Murphy that she could not continue her research, prompting legal action for infringement of her academic freedom. Following these developments, Sheffield Hallam University issued an apology to Murphy and reversed its decision, granting her the green light to proceed.
University officials stated that their initial decision not to support Murphy’s research stemmed from various complex factors, including the suspension of insurance due to a defamation suit filed by a Chinese firm. They further clarified that the decision was not influenced by commercial interests in China, emphasizing their commitment to academic freedom and the importance of Murphy's work.
