Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

US Cyber-operations against Russia

Monday 24 March 2025 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • UK defence networks face a range of state threats from malign actors
  • Government is expanding provision and range of capabilities in cyber-forces
  • UK will continue supporting Ukraine in securing critical national infrastructure

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Al Pinkerton Lib Dem Surrey Heath
Defence Foreign Affairs
Context

Following a visit to the 77th Brigade as part of the armed forces parliamentary scheme, Dr Pinkerton is concerned about the growing pressure on UK capabilities after the U.S. President's decision to cease American offensive cyber-operations.

Question

The hon. Gentleman noted his recent visit to the 77th Brigade and learned about their work tackling Russian disinformation in eastern Europe. Following the US announcement of ceasing offensive cyber-operations against Russia, Dr Pinkerton raised concerns over UK capabilities to address this threat, particularly for the 77th Brigade and other agencies.

Answer from The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)

UK defence networks face a range of state threats from malign actors. The Government are expanding provision and range of capabilities, including creating a new direct entry cyber-pathway to recruit people into our cyber-forces. The hon. Gentleman will understand that I cannot talk about ongoing operations, but we are investing more in this area.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The Minister did not provide a specific assessment of UK capabilities or confirm the increased pressure on the 77th Brigade and other agencies.

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Q2 Gordon McKee Lab Glasgow South
Ukraine
Context

Given the importance of cyber security in supporting Ukraine, Gordon McKee sought assurance on continued UK support.

Question

The hon. Member asked for assurances that the UK will continue to support Ukraine with its cyber security needs, including securing critical national infrastructure and providing technology, training, and access to support.

Answer from The Minister for the Armed Forces (Luke Pollard)

We have made it very clear that we will continue supporting Ukraine, not only to put it in the best possible position on the battlefield and in any negotiations to come but to secure its critical national infrastructure. We are working with Ukraine’s defence and civilian sectors in this area.

Answered
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