Ex-MI6 Chief Warns of Chinese Threat to UK Health Records After Huawei & British Steel Scandals

A former MI6 chief has raised urgent alarms over the safety of NHS medical records amid concerns about Chinese access. Sir Richard Dearlove criticized the sharing of anonymized patient data with Chinese researchers, highlighting potential threats to national security. He insisted that such policies overlook the reciprocal lack of access Western nations face in China, questioning why the UK continues to allow foreign entities access to vital data.

This warning follows revelations that the UK Biobank, which consolidates health information from 500,000 individuals, has seen one in five access requests coming from China. While patient identities are stripped from shared records, experts express unease that individuals could still be traced back, suggesting that China’s interest may extend to developing biological capabilities beyond traditional warfare.

Dearlove’s remarks echo his prior warnings surrounding Huawei and 5G technology, where initial assurances of safety were quickly overturned. He emphasizes the need for the UK to engage with China on a foundation of reciprocity, stressing that strategic data cannot be carelessly entrusted to potentially hostile nations. Others, like Rimesh Patel, advocate for robust vetting processes for data sharing to protect national interests while still supporting scientific research.

Government representatives assert that strict protocols govern data sharing, securing sensitive information to safeguard public trust and national security. As the complexities of global data exchange grow, the UK faces the challenge of balancing openness with indispensable protective measures.