Exemptions for the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS)
Neither tier of FIRS applies to arrangements involving the UK government or any arrangements involving an individual acting on behalf of the Crown or who holds Crown status. This does not include public bodies without crown status (e.g. UKRI, Research England or the Research Councils).
The Enhanced Tier does not apply when any UK public body (including UKRI) is party to the arrangement (although this excludes local government, schools and other universities). This includes projects partially funded by UKRI and a specified foreign power.
Public communications (e.g. research papers) do not need to register under the Political Influence Tier if it is clear that the activity has been made at the direction of a foreign power.
Students receiving financial support from a foreign state will not ordinarily have to register their funding arrangement under the enhanced.
Tier provided activities are limited to those necessary to complete the course, acknowledge the funding and comply with expected standards of conduct (e.g. providing the funder with personal details or progress updates. If ATAS is needed, the exemption only applies if ATAS clearance has been obtained.
Where a university is in an arrangement with a foreign power to facilitate an arrangement describe above, that institution is also exempt from registering under the enhanced tier.
Visitors from or travel to specified countries is not covered.
Visitors are required to register if they have been directed by the specified foreign power or entity to carry out relevant activities in the UK.
Anyone who believes that their work may be relevant to FIRS or if you have any questions related to the scheme, please contact UniversitySecretary@tees.ac.uk.