U.K. Introduces Strict Registration Rules for Russian Government Workers to Enhance National Security

The U.K. government announced on Tuesday that anyone employed in Britain by the Russian state will be required to register on a new list launching in July, or risk incarceration.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis informed parliament that Russia would be subjected to the strictest controls under the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (Firs).

This marks Russia as the second nation, following Iran, to be included in the enhanced tier of the scheme, which is designed to strengthen the U.K.’s national security against hidden foreign influences.

Consequently, anyone who is instructed by the Russian government—or an associated entity—to perform activities within the U.K. must disclose this work or face a potential prison sentence of up to five years.

«Russia poses a significant danger to the national security of the U.K.,» stated Jarvis, a junior member of the Home Office.

He pointed to numerous «hostile actions,» including the use of a lethal nerve agent in Salisbury in 2018, espionage, arson, and cyberattacks, such as spear-phishing operations targeting U.K. legislators.

Jarvis also referenced Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its intention to destabilize both European and global security.

According to the Home Office, individuals working for Russian governmental bodies, military, intelligence agencies, police forces, and legislative and judicial branches will be affected by these regulations.

He also mentioned that the government plans to identify various political parties under Russian control, including the United Russia party, within the framework of the scheme.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper noted that these regulations would create additional challenges for Russia in executing hostile actions against the U.K. in the future.

Originally planned to take effect in 2024, the new Labour government led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced shortly after its election in July that the implementation would be postponed.

Jarvis confirmed that the rules would now come into force on July 1.

Under the lower tier of Firs, any individual attempting to sway political decisions on behalf of a foreign power must register their activities.

The enhanced tier applies specifically to nations that are viewed as a threat to U.K. national interests’ safety.

This tier necessitates the registration of all activities conducted at the behest of designated states.

Last month, the government declared that Iran would be placed in the higher tier, mandating that anyone employed by its regime, including intelligence agencies and the Revolutionary Guard, disclose their work.

Thus far, the government has resisted pressure to elevate China to the top tier, as it aims to foster better relations with Beijing, hoping that this will encourage Chinese investment in the U.K. economy.

Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith, a known critic of China, advocated for its inclusion, asserting that it is «at the center of efforts to disrupt democracy and freedom.»

Jarvis indicated he would refrain from speculating about which countries might be included in the future.