House of Commons · Westminster Hall
24 November 2020 · 4 other contributors · 6,849 words
Opened by Alun Cairns Con Vale of Glamorgan
Responding minister: Matt Warman
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Alun Cairns raised concerns about 5g network in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
I ask the government to play an active part in setting the direction and creating parameters for private investment in fields where we are already leading, such as compound semiconductors, radio frequency and satellite communications, cyber-resilience, backhaul technologies, test and validation, and others.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the challenge of finding and developing alternative providers to Huawei after its exclusion from the UK's 5G network. The tension between security concerns and rapid technological rollout has led to a difficult decision for the Government, but it presents an opportunity for the UK to step up in specific areas of technology.
Reminded Members about changes to normal practice for the new call list system, emphasized social distancing rules and one-way systems within the room. Advised MPs not to remain after their speech to accommodate Public Gallery members.
Chi Onwurah expressed strong support for the debate's topic of 5G network development, highlighting its transformative potential across various sectors. She criticised the current government's handling of the situation with Huawei, which has caused delays and significant costs to operators, potentially up to £7 billion. Onwurah called for a comprehensive diversification strategy to ensure market resilience and innovation, pointing out that the Telecommunications (Security) Bill lacks provisions for such a strategy despite its importance for network security. I appreciate the Minister's comments and look forward to the publication of the Bill. I asked if the diversification strategy will have the same legislative structure, content and meaning as the Telecommunications (Security) Bill, and if it will have binding legislative power.
Mr Khan expressed concern over the cyber-security threats posed by Huawei's involvement in the UK's 5G network, citing evidence of malicious cyber-activity during the pandemic. He noted that China and its state-owned enterprises like Huawei pose a significant risk to the UK's digital infrastructure due to their potential for espionage and sabotage. Mr Khan also highlighted the questionable durability of Huawei's systems against cyber-attacks and suggested opportunities for British and international companies to develop a secure 5G network, which would bolster the UK's economy and security.
Stephen Flynn highlighted the importance of embracing technological advancements like 5G for improved standards of living and business potential. He criticized the Government's handling of Huawei, suggesting a more consistent approach would have been preferable. Flynn emphasized the need to consider Scotland's specific geography and rural areas' connectivity issues while addressing climate change challenges.
Government Response
Matt WarmanPaid tribute to the Catapult and Dr Andy Sellars for their work in 5G network development. Mentioned a £43.5 million government project supported by UKRI with an additional £12 million from the Welsh Government, which has employed about 1,500 people so far and is expected to create thousands more jobs. Emphasized collaboration with private sector companies like Nokia and Ericsson, as well as new entrants such as NEC. Highlighted upcoming publication of a diversification strategy and a Bill focusing on security in telecommunications. Stressed the importance of removing barriers for market entrants and leveraging expertise across diverse regions including Glasgow. Noted the shared rural network project worth £1 billion to accelerate 4G connectivity, especially in Scotland. Mentioned Vodafone's trial of Open RAN technology in Wales as part of future growth strategies. Announced an initial funding package to be set out in the spending review for early progress on diversification and security measures.