The Deputy Prime Minister, Oliver Dowden, has announced plans to launch a consultation on safeguarding UK universities against national security threats from foreign states.
Security measures aim to protect cutting-edge technology from foreign interference and prevent dependency on external investment. The consultation will explore options such as extending security clearances, funding research security capabilities, and enhancing reporting processes. Additionally, the National Protective Security Agency (NPSA) and NCSC have launched the Trusted Research Evaluation Framework (TREF) to aid institutions in assessing research security. This collaborative effort between government and universities seeks to fortify research resilience and mitigate risks to national interests.
