Guidance for the UK Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS)

The Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) is a regulatory measure introduced under the UK's National Security Act 2023. It aims to increase transparency regarding foreign influence within the UK by mandating the registration of certain activities influenced by foreign governments or entities. It is due to come into effect on 1 July 2025.

What is FIRS?

FIRS is a two-tiered scheme designed to monitor foreign influence. The tiers are as follows:

• Political Influence Tier: requires registration of arrangements between a UK party and a foreign power to carry out political influence activities in the UK at the direction of said foreign power (please find the government guidance here).

• Enhanced Tier: requires registration of a broader range of activities for specified countries, parts of countries or foreign government-controlled entities where the government sees a threat to the safety of interests of the UK (please find the government guidance here).

The responsibility for registration can fall on the University where it is the University that makes an arrangement with a foreign power. Where an arrangement is made by an individual researcher or academic the legal responsibility to register lies with that individual. Noncompliance is a criminal offence and may result in fines or imprisonment.

How could this affect departments and staff?

Activities within a university setting involving or supported by foreign governments may fall within scope of FIRS, particularly if they involve direct or indirect efforts to influence the UK government.

Key scenarios include:

• Research Collaborations:
  If collaborations involving foreign governments include advocating policy changes or engaging UK officials, they may require registration.
• Foreign Funding:
  Research funded by foreign governments that influences UK politics could trigger registration requirements.
• Public Engagement:
  Articles, talks or events directed by foreign powers aimed at influencing UK public opinion or policies may need to be registered (note that published research papers do not need to be registered if the direction by foreign powers is declared in the paper).

Anyone who believes that their work may be relevant to FIRS or if you have any questions related to the Scheme, please contact FIRS@admin.cam.ac.uk.