5G Network and Huawei

The Government's telecoms supply chain review prioritises strong cyber-security, network resilience, and diversity across the entire 5G supply chain. A decision on high-risk vendors will be made after a thorough analysis and consultation with allies.

The risk of involving Huawei in Britain's critical infrastructure is significant, given its alleged involvement with the Chinese state and security apparatus. The decision will have long-term implications for national security and should be approached with caution.

Requests assurances about the integrity and safety of any network involving Huawei, questioning the progress made since March 2021. Concerned about potential delays in 5G roll-out and economic impact, as well as lack of homegrown suppliers.

Suggests that the Intelligence and Security Committee could conduct a detailed investigation to address concerns about Huawei's involvement in 5G networks.

Concerned about the inclusion of Chinese-owned technology in UK's digital infrastructure. Asked for guidance on what is included in a ban and assurances regarding security and autonomy of data.

Stated that any decision would be made after engagement with intelligence agencies, considering the long-term consequences. Emphasised national security as a top priority.

Asked for further clarification on government's stance without providing detailed arguments or statistics.

Sought confirmation of a proper security risk assessment and urged the UK to proceed based on evidence rather than external pressure. Highlighted interdependence with China as a strategic goal to reduce conflict risks.

Highlighted the importance of sovereign capability in national security, urging the new defence and security review to emphasise this aspect over cost considerations.

Expressed concern that allowing Huawei's involvement would be a strategic error given China's alleged cyber activities, urging the government to reject Huawei immediately.

Asked for assurances that decisions would be made in national interest without undue influence from external threats or bullying.

Questioned the logic behind limiting Huawei to peripheral network roles, citing concerns raised by allies and highlighting potential risks associated with 5G networks.

Raised human rights implications of granting access to foreign firms, urging stringent impact assessments for all companies wanting public contracts or running critical infrastructure in the UK.

Asked for reassurances that decision would be made according to intelligence agency advice and considering long-term commercial viability of Huawei equipment.

Questioned the logic behind prioritising cost over security, suggesting a Treasury short-sighted approach was putting national interests at risk.

Asked why technological dependency on China had not been addressed earlier and urged the government to develop indigenous technology to avoid reliance on non-ally countries.

Discussed the complexity of decision-making regarding Huawei's involvement in UK’s 5G network, emphasising the need to consider research and development investment for a diverse landscape. He also mentioned the potential risks involved and the importance of national security.

Asked about the Government's awareness of potential risks if Huawei were involved in the non-core part of the 5G network, highlighting documented risks such as intellectual property theft and pressure on Chinese citizens.

Expressed concerns about long-term security implications of China's growing power and influence, questioning the need for greater transparency in international relations regarding Huawei.

Declared his interest in internet-connected devices in critical national infrastructure. Raised concerns about the UK’s position amidst conflicting policies from China, EU and US, asking for absolute reassurance on technology safety within critical infrastructure.

Asked the Minister to look at Worcestershire local enterprise partnership's 5G testbed work in Malvern and urged the Foreign Secretary to ensure a UK ambassador in Washington is appointed.

Questioned the Minister’s scepticism regarding Huawei’s bid for 2G, 3G and 4G networks at reduced prices, highlighting risks to both security and commercial market control.

Expressed concern over risks highlighted by former MI6 officials regarding Huawei’s involvement in the network. Asked for justification on why such a risk is being considered when other options exist.

Discussed China's political stance, mentioning regular cyber-attacks and industrial espionage, questioning fairness in doing business with such entities.

Raised concerns about the Huawei oversight board’s report on serious systemic failings in cybersecurity within current networks. Questioned the Government's readiness to give more work to a company with unresolved issues.

Asked for an outline of the impact on existing 5G networks using Huawei equipment and queried the influence of US advice on decision-making.

Emphasised national security as a priority, questioned China’s approach to foreign involvement in critical infrastructure, suggesting it should be given serious consideration.

Questioned the Government's decision-making regarding Huawei despite China's human rights violations and the Communist party’s role in suppressing religious groups like Uighur Muslims.

Proposed a bond mechanism to ensure swift replacement costs if Huawei were to breach national security. Highlighted long-term ramifications and strategic planning.

Called for caution regarding Huawei’s involvement due to potential risks highlighted by the security services.

Responded that while China differs from the UK in managing relationships with mobile networks, decisions will be guided by national security concerns and Cabinet recommendations.

Asked if Cabinet would consider security over economic factors and questioned whether the country can provide its own communications infrastructure.

Questioned justification for importing surveillance technology from a country practising mass oppression in Xinjiang.

Emphasised the need to retain core capabilities domestically despite trade relations with China, referencing security concerns raised by Bloomberg Businessweek.

Asked when the Government would consider domestic providers for infrastructure projects, highlighting a contradiction in their industrial strategy.

Inquired how to extricate Huawei from existing telecommunications networks if further involvement is deemed risky.

Asked for a 100% guarantee that UK digital connectivity will not be compromised by any future deal with Huawei.

Suggested potential risks to the Five Eyes alliance and shared intelligence if the UK partners with Huawei on 5G technology.

Asked whether there were any measures addressing public health concerns regarding 5G implementation, citing community worries in her constituency.

Inquired about discussions with other Five Eyes allies, such as Australia and New Zealand, regarding Huawei’s involvement in their 5G networks.

Highlighted China's history of using technology for espionage and cyber-disruption, questioning the downside of choosing a low-risk vendor from an allied country.

Asked if rural areas like Ynys Môn would be included in 5G rollouts and assured that such areas are part of the programme's test beds and trials.

Asked if fair trade should be considered, noting state support for Huawei puts western companies at a disadvantage.

Inquired about assurances regarding the safety of Birmingham’s 5G network to ease business concerns over security risks.