Source · Select Committees · Human Rights (Joint Committee)
Recommendation 7
7
Not Addressed
We welcome the introduction of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) as a tool to...
Conclusion
We welcome the introduction of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) as a tool to help strengthen the UK’s ability to tackle transnational repression. The designation of Iran and Russia as countries listed on the enhanced tier of FIRS is consistent with the evidence presented to us regarding the threat posed by TNR originating from these states. However, we are concerned by the evidence we have received regarding transnational repression linked to China. The absence of China on the enhanced tier of FIRS is therefore notable. (Conclusion, Paragraph 32)
Government response summary AI-generated
The government's response outlines its general approach to TNR, including awareness campaigns and police training, and states it will refine its approach. However, it does not directly address the committee's concern about the absence of China from the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS).
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government · verbatim extract
Not Addressed
1. FIRS imposes registration requirements on certain activity in the UK that is directed by foreign powers or entities. The political tier provides transparency to those who may be seeking to carry out political influence activity on behalf of a foreign state. 2. The enhanced tier provides greater assurance around the activities of the foreign powers or entities which pose the greatest risk to the UK. It requires those acting in the UK at the direction of a specified foreign power or foreign power-controlled entity to register. It also requires specified foreign power-controlled entities to register activities that they carry out themselves in the UK. The activities requiring registration under the enhanced tier could include activities which may repress individuals perceived to be a threat. The Government recognises that activity amounting to transnational repression is relevant to this assessment and will ensure it is considered in decisions regarding specification under the enhanced tier. 3. The Secretary of State may specify a country or part of a country under the enhanced tier where they consider specification to be reasonably necessary to protect the safety or interests of the UK. This requires the consideration of a broad range of interests, including but not limited to, security considerations. As with all risks to the UK’s national security, the risk posed by TNR will be carefully considered as part of this process, in agreement with the Committee’s recommendation. We will continue to keep specifications on the enhanced tier under constant review to ensure we are protecting the safety and interests of the UK. Countries are considered separately for specification and any changes to the countries listed will be announced first in Parliament in the usual way. No decision has been taken on whether we should specify China on the enhanced tier of the scheme. The implementation of the political tier of the scheme on 1 July ensures that any foreign influence in our democracy, including from China, needs to be declared. This is a significant step forward in protecting our democracy from interference.
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