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Cyber-security — [Hannah Bardell in the Chair]
07 May 2024
Lead MP
Mark Hendrick
Preston
Lab Co-op
Responding Minister
Thomas Tugendhat
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Word Count: 7615
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Mark Hendrick raised concerns about cyber-security — [hannah bardell in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The lead MP asks the Government to bring forward legal protections for legitimate cyber-security activities, update network and information systems regulations, provide support for small businesses and charities in responding to cyber-attacks, and enhance the UK's cyber skills through a national programme of cyber literacy.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The UK faces significant cyber-threats from various actors including states, state-sponsored groups and criminal organisations. Last year, UK businesses experienced approximately 7.78 million cyber-crimes, with half of businesses and around a third of charities reporting cyber-breaches or attacks. Ransomware attacks have increased by 84%, with the UK being the second most targeted country after the US. The Computer Misuse Act 1990 is outdated and needs updating to enable legitimate cyber-security activities.
Dan Jarvis
Lab
Barnsley North
Mr Jarvis highlighted the increasing cyber threat and called for updated legislation, particularly to criminalise harmful use of artificial intelligence and deepfakes. He pointed out that outdated Computer Misuse Act (CMA) restricts ethical hacking practices essential for identifying system vulnerabilities. Citing recent reports, he stressed the urgent need for legislative reform given the rising number of cyber-breaches affecting businesses and charities, and the potential catastrophic impact of ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure.
Owen Thompson
Lab
Cardiff North
Digital technologies are critical to the functioning of society and economy, but they also pose cyber-resilience challenges. The speaker highlighted the need for a collaborative approach between government, public, private, and third sectors to protect against cyber-attacks and enhance resilience. He noted that Scotland's strategic framework for cyber-resilience aims to make the nation digitally secure by addressing ongoing challenges.
Government Response
Thomas Tugendhat
Government Response
The speaker briefly intervened, stating 'Listen to me.'
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.