Hundreds of Chinese postgraduate students are to be banned from studying sensitive subjects at British universities as ministers toughen entry rules, The Times understands.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office will expand from today the remit of its security vetting for overseas applicants wanting to study subjects relating to national security, amid concerns about the theft of intellectual property.
It is understood that ministers at the national security committee signed off plans for stricter rules earlier this year.
The measures are expected to block hundreds of Chinese students from entering Britain. Visas for those already enrolled will be revoked if they are deemed to pose a risk.
The latest move comes in response to growing concerns in government about Chinese students acquiring technology and knowledge
