The Telecommunications (Security) Bill - New clause 3 and amendment 1

With this it will be convenient to discuss the following: New clause 2—Provision of information to the Intelligence and Security Committee; New clause 3—Network diversification.

Welcomes this Bill, and the additional safeguards it provides. However, expresses concern about the significant gap in Parliament’s oversight of these new powers when designation notices or designated vendor directions cannot be laid before Parliament for security reasons. Calls for any such information to be provided to the ISC for scrutiny.

Stephen Flynn supports the Government's efforts in addressing foreign investment in national infrastructure but calls for assurances that the UK government will cover costs and ensure a secure replacement strategy. He also emphasises the need for full consultation with devolved Governments on telecommunications matters, particularly regarding 4G/5G roll-out issues in rural Scotland.

Intervened to express concern over how much deeper the relationship can go with a country that sanctions UK parliamentarians for raising human rights abuses and security concerns.

Supports the bill for protecting UK interests. Emphasises the importance of cooperation with other nations that share similar ideals and interests. Highlights connectivity issues in rural Scotland, advocating for better infrastructure to support tourism and health services. Urges Ofcom to be nimble in addressing emerging threats.

Supports efforts towards resilience and diversifying supply chains in national security. Cites South Korea's approach to 5G infrastructure as an example for UK. Raises concerns about companies headquartered in China potentially accessing UK data under different regulatory frameworks, citing TikTok and Hikvision as examples. Questions the robustness of current legislation against threats from China.

Supports new clause 1, which obligates Ofcom to report on resource adequacy and assess network providers' security measures annually. Emphasises the need for regulation of telecommunications providers due to their critical role in society. Suggests that private companies may provide minimal information unless legally required and stresses the importance of adequate funding for regulatory functions. Supports new clause 2, advocating for appropriate provision of information to Intelligence and Security Committee, highlighting the necessity of informed scrutiny by MPs. Considers the balance between transparency and confidentiality, especially in national security contexts. Endorses amendment 1 to clause 14, requesting Secretary of State to consult devolved government ministers during reviews and report drafting processes, particularly relevant for Northern Ireland's cyber-security advancements.

Highlights the need for national security powers within the Bill. Raises concerns about the vulnerability of modern communication systems due to global interdependence and technological interoperability, stressing that commercial organisations are not inherently virtuous in protecting public interests. Argues for greater regulation and scrutiny of Ofcom's new responsibilities under the legislation.

Supports Mr Hayes by highlighting that the difficulty in removing Huawei as a supplier stemmed from the limited number of viable alternatives, underscoring the importance of diversification to avoid total dependence on any single supplier.

Expresses concern over the supply chain risks associated with suppliers like Nokia and Ericsson, which source components from China, indicating that even non-Chinese suppliers may not be entirely secure.

Supports the Government but raises concerns about oversight and scrutiny of decisions made by DCMS, Ofcom, and the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee regarding national security. Expresses doubt that these organisations can effectively oversee matters involving commercial companies and classified information due to lack of necessary security clearances and meeting facilities.

Acknowledges Bob Stewart's concerns but does not provide a detailed position or argument.

Supports the Bill, emphasising its importance for better domestic and international security, placating allies, diversifying 5G providers, and enhancing Ofcom’s regulatory powers. Expresses support for new clauses and amendments but agrees with the Government that some matters are outside this Bill's scope.

Announced that there will be three Divisions on new clauses 1, 2 and 3. Requested to be informed of any additional votes.

Mr. Lewis agrees with the Minister but expresses concern that provisions may need to be included in each individual Bill if changes occur, suggesting a memorandum of understanding should be adjusted instead.

Mr. Shannon seeks assurances on how cyber-security will be protected in Northern Ireland and asks for confirmation through Hansard that such protections will be implemented.

Emphasised the need for Ofcom to have adequate resources to meet future challenges, expressed disappointment with the Government's response regarding ISC scrutiny and network diversification.

Announced the voting procedure for the debate without taking a stance on any specific amendment or clause.

Defended the Bill as crucial for national security, thanked Members for their contributions, provided reassurances regarding Ofcom's role, diversification plans, and ISC scrutiny, and expressed hope for continued cooperation.

I support the Bill as a necessary measure to protect our telecoms national security interests. However, I am concerned that the Government have allowed ideology to undermine effectiveness when it comes to this Bill. The market failed, but Ministers did not notice; they thought that security could be left to the market.

I agree with the hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Central (Chi Onwurah): this is a Bill to try to block hostile states and organisations from breaching our national security, and its intentions are absolutely on target.

This is a Bill that we will support. We will give it close scrutiny moving forward, and I hope that the Government will work on good terms with the Scottish Government moving forward in this regard.