LONDON — Chinese students attending universities across the United Kingdom are reportedly being pressured by their government to spy on their classmates, according to a recent report.

This pressure aims to suppress discussions concerning issues sensitive to the Chinese government, highlighting broader concerns about academic freedom and free speech on campus.The UK-China Transparency (UKCT) think tank conducted a survey among academics specializing in China studies, which revealed instances of Chinese government officials warning lecturers against discussing specific topics in their classes.

The new report underscores these findings, suggesting that universities may be reluctant to address this issue due to their financial dependence on fees paid by Chinese students.Under the recent legislation that came into effect, universities are now obligated to actively promote academic freedom and free speech, including in agreements with foreign countries.

Failure to meet these obligations could result in significant fines.

The Office for Students (OfS), the UK's higher education regulator, views freedom of speech and academic freedom as 'fundamental' to higher education.The issue has become more pressing after a new law came into effect placing additional responsibility on universities to uphold academic freedom and free speech.

The Office for Students already possesses powers to ensure that these principles are upheld, including addressing any threats from foreign states or institutions.

These powers are set to be strengthened with the introduction of a new complaints system.The Chinese embassy in London dismissed the report as 'groundless and absurd,' stating that China respects freedom of speech both within the UK and globally.

However, the allegations detailed in the report have caused concern among skills minister Jacqui Smith and other advocates for academic freedom.

Any attempts by foreign states to intimidate or harass individuals in the UK will not be tolerated.The situation has brought attention to the operations of Confucius Institutes on UK campuses, which promote Chinese culture and language but have been criticized for their alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party.

OfS chief executive Susan Lapworth previously expressed concerns regarding these institutes under new free speech laws and expects them to be scrutinized further.