Energy Infrastructure Technology Chinese Imports 2026-02-10
2026-02-10
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Reports from Norway and Denmark suggest that Chinese-manufactured electric buses contain remote kill switch technology, raising concerns about the national security risks of importing energy infrastructure technologies from China.
Given reports from Norway and Denmark that Chinese-manufactured electric buses contain remote kill switch technology, and that recent UK-China engagement appears to have delivered an embassy for the Chinese and little more than a Labubu for the United Kingdom, how can the Minister be confident that Chinese-made energy infrastructure does not pose similar national security risks? What steps is she taking to remove our reliance on Chinese-made infrastructure?
That is slightly audacious, given that when we left government in 2010 we had, I think, three of the top solar companies in the world, but when we came back into office we had nothing—there was no supply chain. National security is this Government's No. 1 overriding priority. We are engaging constructively with every opportunity and all actors but at the same time making sure that every single decision takes into account our national security, which comes first above anything else.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The steps being taken to remove reliance on Chinese-made infrastructure were not specified.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential impact of energy infrastructure-related technologies imported from China on national security.
What assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of energy infrastructure-related technologies imported from China on security?
This Government take energy security extremely seriously. We run one of the world's safest, most reliable energy systems, and we are a top destination for investment. Investment in our energy infrastructure undergoes the highest level of national security scrutiny.
▸
Assessment & feedback
No specific assessment or concrete details on the impact were provided.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Geothermal Engineering Ltd in Cornwall is on the verge of opening the UK's first ever geothermal electricity plant, which will produce energy and lithium from beneath the ground.
Domestic production of clean energy infrastructure technologies insulates us from Chinese security issues. In Cornwall we are on the cusp of significant geothermal baseload energy production. Geothermal Engineering Ltd in my constituency will imminently open the UK's first ever geothermal electricity plant, producing energy and lithium from beneath our feet. Will the Minister ensure that there will be ministerial representation at this key milestone in the UK's clean energy transition?
From China to Cornwall, Mr Speaker! I thank my hon. Friend for his continued championing of Cornwall, geothermal energy and critical minerals. This Government support geothermal, and we will engage constructively at any key moment.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment regarding ministerial representation was not given.
Response accuracy