Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Hostile State Threats 2025-02-24

2025-02-24

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Mark Sewards Lab
Leeds South West and Morley
▸ Context
Hostile states are using unknowing security officials in the UK to undermine national security, with Russia and Iran employing this tactic according to MI5's director general. The Home Office recently issued guidance on due diligence.
What steps is her Department taking to counter hostile state threats, particularly working with the security industry to ensure protection against these tactics?
The Minister for Security (Dan Jarvis)
The Home Office is implementing measures from the National Security Act 2023 to strengthen defences against state threats. Following recent guidance, we are organising targeted engagement events across the security industry and attending key conferences to ensure that all officials understand the risks and can handle threats effectively.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Jim Shannon DUP
Strangford
▸ Context
Paramilitary groups across the UK work with hostile states, posing a security threat.
What is being done to ensure that paramilitary groups in the UK who represent hostile states are taken on effectively?
The Minister for Security (Dan Jarvis)
All threats, regardless of origin, are treated seriously. We work closely with the police and operational agencies around the clock to keep the public safe from such dangers.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific measures against paramilitary groups were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Lisa Smart LD
Hazel Grove
▸ Context
Apple discontinued advanced data protection services in the UK due to Home Office demands for back-door access, raising concerns about civil liberties. Liberal Democrats argue that investigatory powers must be proportionate.
What steps is the Minister taking to ensure proper protection of national security and civil liberties? Why does the Government believe Apple’s UK customers should not have the same privacy rights as those in other countries?
The Minister for Security (Dan Jarvis)
I cannot confirm or deny the existence of any notices under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 due to national security reasons. Privacy and security are not at odds; robust safeguards and independent oversight ensure data is obtained only when necessary and proportionate.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Operational details were avoided
I Cannot Comment On Operational Matters Cannot Confirm Or Deny
Response accuracy